This article was based on the interview with Jess Keeney of Duck Creek Technologies by Greg Kihlström, MarTech keynote speaker for The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström podcast. Listen to the original episode here:
One important aspect of customer-centric product development is continuous learning. In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, product and technology teams must stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements to remain competitive. However, it is not just about adopting every new technology that comes along; it is about learning and understanding how these technologies can be leveraged in a meaningful way.
Continuous learning plays a crucial role in the success of product and technology teams. It requires individuals to be constantly curious and willing to step out of their comfort zones. This means trying and testing the limits, but also being mindful of not jeopardizing the customer experience. The goal is to find safe and effective ways to incorporate new technologies that can make a meaningful difference.
While some organizations may provide learning paths and training opportunities, the most successful individuals are those who actively seek out knowledge and self-learn. They read, educate themselves through podcasts, and take advantage of the various forms of learning available today. Learning has become quicker, shorter, and easier, so waiting for someone to tell you what to learn is not enough. Continuous learners are always looking for faster ways to acquire knowledge and understand how it can enhance their ability to move forward.
Continuous learning is not limited to technical skills. It also extends to understanding how to work better with others, including customers and colleagues. This requires individuals to be adaptable and open to adopting new technologies and patterns. The ability to continuously learn and adapt is a valuable asset in any career and is essential for personal and professional growth.
There is no downside to continuous learning. No one has ever said that they have learned too much and it became dangerous. On the contrary, continuous learning fosters growth and development. It allows individuals to gain a deeper understanding of their field, adopt new technologies, and improve their collaboration and communication skills.
Creating a culture of continuous learning within product and technology teams is crucial. It starts by making it okay to fail and encouraging individuals to be curious and take risks in a safe environment. Failure should be seen as an opportunity for learning and improvement. When individuals are empowered to try new things and make mistakes, they become more comfortable with being uncomfortable. Over time, this discomfort becomes addictive, and everyone in the team becomes more open to continuous learning.
Practical ways to instill a culture of continuous learning include providing opportunities for self-learning, encouraging individuals to seek out knowledge, and creating a safe environment for experimentation and growth. With remote work becoming more prevalent, it is easier than ever to connect with others and share knowledge. The majority of people are just one chat away, making it easier to collaborate and learn from each other.
Continuous learning is essential for product and technology teams. It enables individuals to stay current with the latest trends and advancements, understand how to leverage new technologies effectively, and improve collaboration and communication skills. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, product leaders can ensure that their teams are constantly growing and adapting to meet the needs of their customers, ultimately driving business success.
