Advertise on podcast: Build What’s Next: Digital Product Perspectives

Forget the AI hype and focus on real ROI in the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). This episode features Method's Jason Rome and Raj Sethi with ISG experts Ashwin Gaidhani and Tapati Bandopadhya, who trace a clear path from AI tools to measurable outcomes. They argue that coding speed isn't the bottleneck—specs, testing, pipelines, and change management are. We break down the mechanics of ROI: how specification elaboration unlocks downstream gains, the decision between human-in-the-loop vs. agent-in-the-loop, and integrating GenAI into CI/CD. We also discuss cost, risk-adjusted ROI (F1 score plus risk), and practical wins for legacy modernization, like AI-driven requirement discovery and service-oriented modernization. The conversation also introduces 'stability lanes' and covers what leaders get wrong (tooling without process change, microservices by default), advocating instead for platform thinking and a conductor's mindset to orchestrate micro-tasks for real lift. Episode Resources: Jason Rome on LinkedIn: /jason-rom-275b2014 Raj Sethi on LinkedIn: in/rajsethi Ashwin Gaidhani on LinkedIn: in/ashwin-gaidhani Tapati Bandopadhya on LinkedIn: in/tapatibandopadhyay Method Website: method.com GlobalLogic Website: globallogic.com ISG Website: isg-one.com

The most valuable features in your product might be hiding in plain sight. We sit down with design leader Andy Vitale to unpack how AI can strip away clutter, surface what matters, and move users from intent to outcome without the scavenger hunt. From dense banking apps to consumer software, we break down a pragmatic path: use agentic assistants to handle administrative tasks, boost findability with smarter search, and free up the interface to highlight real value. We dive into personalization that actually delivers. Instead of broad segments, AI can synthesize behavior, preferences, and context in real time to shape the experience—while also making existing configuration options easier to discover. Andy shares how teams can pair analytics, NPS, and session data with AI-driven synthesis to spot drop-offs faster and focus roadmaps on the true unmet needs. We also explore the trust equation: data privacy, benchmark accuracy, and the difference between AI as research moderator, synthesizer, or simulated participant. Looking ahead, we imagine agentic design systems that assemble the right UI for the moment, judgment-ready data visualizations that compress complexity, and workflow views that tell you what’s blocked, what’s yours, and what’s next. AI becomes a co-author for high performers, speeding concept validation upstream while tightening execution downstream—without losing the human taste that makes products resonate. We close with hopes and fears: faster solutions and better confidence on one side; sameness and loss of craft on the other. If you care about building simpler, smarter, and more humane products with AI, this conversation will sharpen your approach. Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, share with a teammate who needs it, and leave a quick review to help others discover the show. Episode Resources: Michael Lewandowski on LinkedIn: in/michael-lewandowski-66769b11 Andy Vitale on LinkedIn: in/andyvitale Method Website: method.com Andy Vitale Website: andyvitale.com

In this podcast episode, Method’s Jason Rome and guest Margaryta V. Rashev discuss the evolving landscape of customer experience (CX) and product development. Join us as we unpack how leading organizations are shattering traditional silos, leveraging data to truly understand customer needs, and driving business growth. Discover the shift from reactive questioning to proactive insights, the critical connection between CX metrics and business outcomes, and the exciting, yet often hyped, role of AI in the insights industry. We'll also explore the power of storytelling to bring user journeys to life and the essential foundations needed for organizations to swiftly respond to emerging customer demands. Tune in to learn how to foster true empathy within your teams and integrate discovery into delivery for impactful product strategies. Jason Rome on LinkedIn: /jason-rom-275b2014 Margaryta V. Rashev on LinkedIn: /margaryta-v-rashev-35a517b/ Method Website: method.com Medallia Website: medallia.com

In this podcast episode, Method’s Dr. Vanina Delobelle and Reema Pinto discuss "The Human Side of AI: Design, Change, and Reimagination. They discuss the crucial difference between viewing AI as a 'solution' versus a 'tool,' and uncover its four transformative elements: efficiency, augmentation, invention, and reimagination. Learn why organizations often struggle with successful AI adoption, examining the role of human emotions, cultural differences in approaching change, and the necessity of designing AI for genuine human interaction. Discover the three key approaches for organizations to prepare for AI: an ecosystem-first strategy, a data-driven mindset with measurable behavioral goals, and a deeply human approach that prioritizes decision-making, career growth, and the celebration of 'pragmatic pioneers.' This is a must-listen for leaders, designers, strategists, and anyone interested in the intersection of technology, business, and humanity, offering invaluable insights into fostering sustainable AI adoption and creating a future where AI truly serves human needs. Dr. Vanina Delobelle on LinkedIn: /in/vaninadelobelle/ Reema Pinto on LinkedIn: /in/reema-pinto-945394/ Method Website: method.com Hitachi Website: https://www.hitachi.com/en/

In this podcast episode host Jason Rome and guest David Brown discuss a practical approach to planning, moving beyond "process theater." It advocates for transparently managing technical debt as product work, leveraging habits over rigid processes, and clearly framing trade-offs. We'll explore clustering work by component to reduce friction, integrating testers early, and dedicating consistent time for modernization. Culture is built on micro-behaviors, emphasizing hiring people who "clean what they touch" and embedding new habits into existing rituals. Recognizing that teams differ, we'll use Team Topologies to align diverse teams with varied cadences, staggering planning and acknowledging the need for dedicated capacity for discovery. If you're ready to embrace practical clarity—visible debt, respectful sequencing, and useful planning—this conversation provides concrete steps to start tomorrow. Episode Resources: Jason Rome on LinkedIn: /jason-rom-275b2014 David Brown on LinkedIn: /in/david-allen-brown/ Method Website: method.com

Join Jason Rome and Mike Adam in this episode of "Build What's Next" as they explore how AI is revolutionizing design teams in financial services. They discuss the impact of AI on design, research, and product teams, covering topics like psychological safety, process changes, the downsides and upsides of AI, and how to integrate it into team workflows. This conversation is highly relevant for design leaders navigating the evolving landscape of AI. Episode Resources: Jason Rome on LinkedIn: /jason-rom-275b2014 Michael Adam on LinkedIn: /in/mikeadam/ Method Website: method.com JPMorgan Chase: jpmorganchase.com/

In this podcast episode host Jason Rome and guest David Brown talk about the crucial role of "confidence" in effective planning. They explore how organizations can honestly assess certainty and uncertainty in project estimates, distinguishing between confidence in "what it'll take to do" and "what this thing will do." The discussion highlights the importance of early, honest conversations about risks and major assumptions, emphasizing that overconfidence can be detrimental. The conversation provides valuable insights into how to build a culture of honesty and clear communication in planning, ultimately aiming to mitigate risks and ensure that projects are not only feasible but also truly desirable for users.

Jon Webster of CPP Investments discusses how AI, particularly large language models (LLMs), is changing organizational decision-making. He emphasizes the practical usefulness of LLMs over their "intelligence" and introduces the "generator-verifier gap." Webster also explores how LLMs can break down linguistic barriers in organizations, make complex thinking more accessible, and highlights that in the age of AI, human differentiation will increasingly come from emotional intelligence and relationship skills. Jason Rome on LinkedIn: /jason-rom-275b2014 Jon Webster on LinkedIn: /jrwebster/ Method Website: method.com CPP Investments: cppinvestments.com

In this podcast episode, Jason Rome and David Brown discuss the critical aspects of planning within organizations, emphasizing the importance of effective decision-making, alignment, and capacity planning. They explore the challenges teams face during planning sessions, the significance of prioritization frameworks, and the need for a balanced approach to managing initiatives. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in enhancing planning processes and the necessity of measuring actual performance against expectations. Episode Resources: Jason Rome on LinkedIn: /jason-rome-275b2014/ David Brown on LinkedIn: /david-allen-brown/ Method Website: method.com

In this part of our conversation, we dive into how big financial institutions handle their incredibly diverse customer base. We're talking about everything from mass-market consumers to high-net-worth individuals and even corporate clients. It's a real challenge to understand and prioritize all those different needs, especially when customer relationships can evolve so much over a lifetime. We'll also touch on the difficulty of reaching those "high-profile" users for research and how AI and better data management are paving the way for more personalized experiences that anticipate what users need, rather than making them dig for it. Episode Resources: Michael Lewandowski on LinkedIn: /in/michael-lewandowski-66769b11/ Joseph Johansen on LinkedIn: /in/josephjohansen/ Method Website: method.com U.S. Bank Website: usbank.com

Join Michael Lewandowski and Joseph Johansen (JJ) as they dive into the complexities of designing for diverse users in financial services. From graphic design beginnings to leading UX XD, JJ shares his journey and experiences across consumer, small business, wealth management, and corporate sectors. They discuss the chicken-and-egg dilemma of targeting users versus starting with needs, and how the right approach depends on the problem at hand. Learn about data-informed personas, the challenges of scaling design in large organizations, and the balance between qualitative and quantitative research. It's a real talk about creating believable user experiences in finance.

In this episode of 'Build What's Next', join host Jason Rome as he dives deep into the world of product management creativity with author and expert Leslie Grandy. Leslie shares her fascinating career journey, from the early days of box software to launching digital media subscription services and leading product at major tech companies. Discover the inspiration behind her upcoming book and learn invaluable techniques like inversion thinking and analogies to unlock your creative potential. We discuss how product managers can claim their creative seat at the table, overcome low creative self-efficacy, and partner with AI effectively. Whether you're an experienced product leader or just starting out, this episode will inspire you to think differently and innovate in your field. Don't miss out on practical tips for boosting your creativity and solving complex problems. Tune in now! Jason Rome on LinkedIn: /jason-rom-275b2014 Leslie Grandy on LinkedIn: /in/leslie-grandy/ Order book here: : https://www.creative-velocity.com/ Method Website: method.com

In this engaging episode, Jason Rome chats with Paul Puopolo, Head of Data Analytics and Innovation at DFW Airport, to explore the cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of air travel. They delve into the intricacies of biometrics, facial recognition, and the delicate balance between enhancing convenience and respecting data privacy. Paul sheds light on the complexities of coordinating innovation across multiple entities, including airlines and the TSA, and how these interconnected brands impact the passenger experience. They discuss how innovation projects are managed within an operational environment and the importance of planning for the long term, not just the immediate future. The conversation also covers AI/ML applications within the airport, the essential role of communication and change management in technology rollouts, and the kind of talent needed to drive successful innovation. They address the challenges of testing new technology in a public space and how to ensure that innovations truly benefit the customer experience. Tune in to get an insider’s perspective on the forces driving transformation in the world of air travel!

In this episode of Build What's Next, Jason Rome interviews Paul Popolo, the Head of Data Analytics and Innovation at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport, about the unique challenges of implementing innovation within the highly operational and risk-averse airport environment. The conversation starts with Paul’s experience transitioning from innovation roles in healthcare and finance to the aviation industry. He highlights the key difference in working at an airport: the highly tactical, operational, and risk-averse nature of the environment. They discuss how much of airport innovation happens behind the scenes, focusing on processing, IoT, and technology that improves the passenger experience without being immediately visible. Paul also addresses the most common request he hears: "Fix the checkpoint!" He explains the complexities of this, given that TSA is a federal entity with its own regulations. The conversation then shifts to the collaborative nature of airport innovation, involving airlines, tenants, and government partners, and how Paul's team navigates this intricate web to implement new technologies and processes.

How is AI revolutionizing the financial sector, and what challenges accompany this transformation? Find out in the latest episode of Build What's Next: Digital Product Perspectives, as host Jason Rome welcomes Joe Fuqua, a technology leader from Truist, to explore the multifaceted impact of AI on modern banking. Joe shares insights from his extensive career, tracing his journey from his early work in science, including physics and mathematics, and his initial experiences with neural networks at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, to his current role driving enterprise data and cloud architecture at Truist.  The discussion unpacks the evolving role of technology, shifting from a mere tool to a crucial business driver, and emphasizes the rising importance of robust data management and governance as a cornerstone for AI implementation. Jason and Joe further explore the intricate balance financial institutions must strike between pursuing digital transformation and navigating the complexities of legacy systems, technical debt, and the need for a cultural shift towards prioritizing data. This episode provides valuable insights into how banks are adapting to the AI era, the technological hurdles they face, and the strategic importance of data in shaping the future of financial services. Episode Resources: Jason Rome on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-rome-275b2014/Joe Fuqua on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-fuqua/Truist Website: https://www.truist.com/Method Website: https://www.method.com