Feature vs. Capabilities
Question: How do you differentiate a capability from a feature in a product context?
PMTK defines a product feature as a capability, something the product does or has.
In PMTK, the terms product capability and product feature are virtually synonymous.
The Blackblot Product Frames Model, a descriptive model that provides a backbone for the product definition process, presents a consistent nomenclature for product definition.
- Market Requirement – functionality sought to address a facet of the market problem.
- Product Feature – product capability that satisfies a specific user/buyer need.
- Product Attribute – real characteristic or property of the product.
- Technical Specification – precise description of an attribute's implementation details.
Here is an example, explained with the blackblot product frames model and PMTK syntax:
- Market Requirement – The user shall be able to smooth out wrinkled fabrics of various clothing items.
- Product Feature – The product produces steam and heat, which flatten different fabric types.
- Product Attribute – The product, boiling water in a container with an electric heating element, both controlled by a potentiometer, produces varying levels of steam and heat suitable for different fabric types.
- Technical Specification – (Note: listed here are the detailed electrical and product design specifications that serve as a complete guide to manufacturing the product).
The PMTK's Product Frames Model view is that with technology, we build something physical, which creates a capability, that solves a problem.
In this example, with electricity-plastics-heating elements, we build a water vaporizing device, that produces heat and steam, which unwrinkles and flattens fabrics.
The product feature is heat and steam production.
Alternative product features could be exerting pressure by mechanical force (spring) or gravity (weight), or perhaps chemicals (?) that unwrinkle clothes (if they exist ).
The Blackblot Product Frames Model is taught in the Blackblot Strategic Product Manager™ (SPMR) course and listed in the PMTK Book: Second Edition on page 32.