Post

Product thinking VS Model thinking

A reflection on how product thinking and model thinking shape the way I approach problem.

Posted
By Robin Xie
1 min read
Product thinking VS Model thinking

I recently completed my Master of Analytics degree. Beyond the technical skills I gained, what I found most valuable was learning to think differently.

1. Product Thinking

It is a mindset I’ve always used when solving problems. It focuses on:

  • Who is the user?
  • What are users’ pain points?
  • What is our objective?
  • What do we have?
  • What is our product positioning？
  • What kind of solution can bridge user needs and business goals?

Product Thinking

2. Model Thinking

Model thinking is something different. It’s about understanding relationships and patterns between inputs and outcomes:

  • What is the objective?
  • What are the influencers?
  • How much does each factor matter? Model Thinking

3. Two Mindsets in Action

Using job huntting case as an example:
If I use product mindset to think the stategy, I will start by asking:

  1. Positioning
    • Who am I?
    • What is the selling point?
    • What’s my unique value?
  2. What is the objective?
    • Am I targeting analyst roles, engineering roles, or something else?
    • What type of company or industry do I want to work in?
  3. How is the job market?
    • What roles are in high demand right now?
    • What skills are employers looking for?

Based on this understanding, I tailor my CV, portfolio, and personal branding, just like crafting a product to meet user needs.



On the other hand, with a model mindset, I will treat job hunting as a system. In this system, various factors influence the outcome. I will start by asking:

  1. What is the objective?
    • Getting a job offer
  2. What are the key influencers (inputs)?
    • CV relevance
    • Technical skill match
    • Interview performance
    • Job search activity (applications sent, networking)
  3. How much does each factor matter?
    • Maybe the strongest predictor is how closely my background matches the role
    • Or maybe a strong referral boosts success.

Based on this, I prioritize effort toward the most impactful factors, such as improving CV-job match or refining interview skills, so I can maximize the chance of success.



I’ve found both ways of thinking genuinely useful, and honestly, they’re making problem-solving more fun.

Career Reflection
Product Thinking Model Thinking
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.