1. From User Needs to Design Iteration
Working on the GoodWalk Shoes project taught me how to balance creativity with practicality in product development, especially when responding to market feedback and adjusting strategies. Our initial product concept went through several iterations and eventually focused on the unique pain points of urban professionals—women who want fashionable heels but don’t want to sacrifice comfort. Through user interviews and Nancy’s advices, we gained insights into the complex relationship these women have with high heels: they love the elegance but dislike the discomfort. This feedback drove us to innovate in our design, creating a product that not only looks good but also provides the necessary support and relief.
2. From Design to Execution
In the execution phase, I learned Figma from my teammate Jia and collaborated on the product design. We transformed insights from user interviews and orthopedic research into specific design choices, such as rounded toe boxes, platform bases, and built-in orthopedic insoles. These features not only address the common discomforts of wearing heels but also add a sense of personalization and professionalism to our product.
Planning the “Milestones and Timeline” also gave me valuable project management experience. By setting clear goals and staging resources for each project phase, I learned how essential structured planning is to smooth team collaboration and on-time delivery. Collaborating across functions—particularly with design and supply chain—further strengthened my ability to integrate multiple perspectives and reach consensus. These experiences not only enriched my product management skillset but also gave me the confidence to bring a strategic perspective to future product roles, bridging the gap between strategy and execution. For market entry, I designed a “Pop-up Events” strategy for urban areas, allowing us to showcase GoodWalk’s innovative design while also offering foot health consultations and workshops to enhance brand credibility. These events elevated brand visibility and provided invaluable direct interaction with potential customers. Additionally, I worked with Mina on a cost-benefit analysis and ROI calculations to ensure financial feasibility.
3. From GoodWalks to Career Growth
This project gave me hands-on experience in the product management process. My previous experience was mainly in market research and strategic planning, which gave me a big-picture perspective and understanding of user needs. Through this project, I applied my knowledge of market strategy and was involved in details, from design to user experience optimization and feature iteration, from strategy to execution.
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Zoey
