working-backwards

Draft a PR/FAQ document to define a product concept from customer problem to ideal end state.

Updated Mar 9, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Andy-HNU/AndyClaw --skill working-backwards-andy-hnu
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: working-backwards
Source: https://github.com/Andy-HNU/AndyClaw/tree/main/skills/lenny-working-backwards
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Andy-HNU/AndyClaw --skill working-backwards-andy-hnu

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Help teams define and communicate the core customer problem and work backward to a compelling future state, ensuring product decisions start with customer value.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Start with the customer problem and avoid retrofitting solutions.
  • Draft a PR/FAQ to describe the ideal end state, include a customer quote, and capture leadership alignment.
  • Use the FAQ to surface feasibility questions, risk, and a viable plan that ties to GTM and organizational needs.
  • Align long-term vision with actionable steps by mapping a ladder from the dream state to today.

Quick Start

Describe your product idea and I will guide you through starting with the customer problem, drafting a PR/FAQ, and validating it against the three tests.

Frequently Asked Questions about working-backwards

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
What is the working backwards product management methodology?▼

The working backwards methodology helps teams define a product concept by starting with the customer problem and working toward an ideal end state. It applies the PR/FAQ process to draft problem and solution paragraphs, customer quotes, and FAQs to validate feasibility.

How do I write a PR/FAQ for a new product idea?▼

To write a PR/FAQ for a new product idea, draft a problem paragraph, a solution paragraph, a customer quote, a leadership quote, and an FAQ. This working backwards process surfaces feasibility questions and captures leadership alignment for the ideal end state.

How do I validate a product concept against scale, strategic fit, and a viable plan?▼

You validate a product concept by assessing the idea against three tests: scale, strategic fit, and a viable plan. The working backwards PR/FAQ process surfaces feasibility questions and risks to ensure the concept aligns with GTM and organizational needs.

How do I align long-term product vision with actionable steps for roadmapping?▼

To align long-term vision with actionable roadmapping steps, map a ladder from the dream state back to today. The working backwards methodology ensures product decisions start with customer value and tie to a viable plan and GTM strategy.

When should I use the working backwards approach instead of retrofitting solutions?▼

Use the working backwards approach when you need to clarify product value and avoid retrofitting solutions. It forces teams to start with the core customer problem, draft a PR/FAQ for the ideal end state, and align stakeholders before committing to development.