I was asked a deceptively simple question last week at a recent consulting engagement, so I figured I’d share my answer here. “How should we approach building AI-based features into our #SaaS product?”
My immediate response was that there are actually more ways for modern AI solutions to enable your product than simply building “AI features.”
Such as AI helping you deliver features faster, for example by using a modern AI-driven product knowledge base that answer engineering questions, assist with technical onboarding, and helps accelerate delivery of features from idea to test. 😉
But when you are designing a customer-facing feature that uses an #AI model, #LLM, or #Agent framework, there are a few fundamentals worth considering. These will help you add real value instead of just bolting “AI” onto something that doesn’t need it.
1. Clarity on the problem, not the model.
Start with a clear user or business problem that truly benefits from #reasoning, #prediction, or #automation, things modern LLMs are good at. AI should amplify a product insight, not replace it.
2. Understand what “good” looks like.
Before you train or integrate a model, define the measurable outcome that signals value. Whether that’s time saved, accuracy improved, or engagement increased.
3. Know your data and feedback loops.
AI features are only as good as the data and reinforcement mechanisms that keep them learning. Train your AI on good clean data and establish feedback loops so the system improves over time instead of decaying in performance.
4. Balance transparency and magic.
Users should understand why the AI behaves as it does, even when it feels magical. Explainability builds trust, while opacity erodes it.
5. Design for iteration, not permanence.
The first version of any AI feature will likely be wrong. Success depends on your ability to quickly retrain, tune, and adapt based on real usage patterns. So make sure you are tracking and logging.
In short, the best AI features don’t start with models. They start with empathy, clarity, and iteration…your standard product management approach.
#AILeadership #ProductStrategy #AIProductDevelopment #MachineLearning #ProductLeadership #TechInnovation #AIThoughtLeadership #AgenticAI #AgentFramework
Designing intelligent systems for climate, business, and policy.
2mosolid approach. focusing on what actually moves the needle is key. too many get lost in flashy tech without real outcomes. good job steering them in the right direction.