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Uncertainty in product management can be defined as "the absence of predictability or information" (PMI, 2022). In the delivery lifecycle of a product, you're likely to recall several points of uncertainty. Is it possible to avoid uncertainty?

To begin with, that's an excellent question. The introduction of change often creates uncertainty as a natural response. Have you ever delivered a highly complex project or product that was exactly in line with the scope, schedule, or budget it was funded for? According to statistics, this is true less than 30% of the time. In reality, about none of them.

The best way to manage uncertainty is to revisit your strategy. Teams and leaders often fail at this point because they don't like to slow down. The risk of uncertainty can, however, grow to the point where what you deliver misses the mark directly or entirely.

The spread of uncertainty can also take the form of a domino effect that spreads from person to person through conversation. Think strategically, slow down, and strategize! If you don't gather relevant data and information, how can you step ahead of uncertainty?

We know slowing down sounds terrible, but try building a product no one wants to fund, use, or buy.

Reference

Project Management Institute. (2022, December). VUCA– Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity. https://bit.ly/3Tl9Kq0