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Opportunity Solution Tree

Definition

A visual framework created by Teresa Torres that maps a desired outcome at the top, branches into opportunities (customer needs and pain points), and further branches into potential solutions and experiments. It makes the PM's thinking transparent and testable. PMs use opportunity solution trees to connect daily delivery work to strategic outcomes and to evaluate multiple solution paths before committing.

Why It Matters for Product Managers

Understanding opportunity solution tree is critical for product managers because it directly influences how teams prioritize work, measure progress, and deliver value to users. PMs use opportunity solution trees to connect daily delivery work to strategic outcomes and to evaluate multiple solution paths before committing. Without a clear grasp of this concept, PMs risk making decisions based on assumptions rather than evidence, which can lead to wasted engineering effort and missed market opportunities.

How It Works in Practice

Teams typically implement this framework by following a structured process:

  • Introduce — Share the framework with the team, explaining the problem it solves and when it is most useful.
  • Calibrate — Run a practice session with a small set of real examples so the team develops a shared understanding of how to apply it.
  • Apply — Use the framework on actual backlog items, roadmap decisions, or discovery questions during a dedicated working session.
  • Review — After a cycle (sprint or quarter), evaluate whether the framework produced better outcomes and adjust how the team uses it.

    • The goal is not to follow opportunity solution tree dogmatically but to use it as a thinking tool that brings structure to decisions that would otherwise rely on gut feel.

    Common Pitfalls

  • Applying the framework mechanically without understanding the reasoning behind each step.
  • Using the framework as a substitute for product judgment rather than as an input to decisions.
  • Skipping calibration sessions, which causes inconsistent scoring or categorization across the team.

    • Related Concepts

    To deepen your understanding, explore the related concept: Customer Development.

    Related Terms

    Discovery (Product Discovery)Jobs to Be Done (JTBD)OKR (Objectives and Key Results)Customer Development

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is opportunity solution tree in product management?+
    A visual framework created by Teresa Torres that maps a desired outcome at the top, branches into opportunities (customer needs and pain points), and further branches into potential solutions and experiments. Product managers use this concept to make more informed decisions and deliver better outcomes for users and the business.
    When should a PM use opportunity solution tree?+
    Use opportunity solution tree when you need a structured approach to make decisions that would otherwise rely on opinion or gut feel. It is especially valuable during prioritization, planning, and stakeholder alignment sessions where a shared framework brings rigor and transparency.
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