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In today’s fast-paced world, product managers must go beyond meeting immediate customer needs and start anticipating future trends, says Mayowa Adebayo, a technology expert and product management mentor.
According to him, those who fail to think like futurists are already lagging.
“A futurist isn’t a prophet or magician. It’s just someone who pays attention to trends, connects the dots, and makes smart guesses about what’s coming next,” Adebayo said.
He explained that for product managers, this means moving beyond the backlog and considering how shifts in technology, society, and consumer behavior will shape the future.
Highlighting the urgency of this approach on Friday, Adebayo noted that technological advancements like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the increasing demand for sustainable products are reshaping industries at a rapid pace. “These changes aren’t slowing down. In Nigeria, we also face unique challenges such as unreliable power supply, limited internet access in rural areas, and fluctuating foreign exchange rates. But these very challenges present opportunities for product managers who think ahead,” he said.
Adebayo cited fintech companies like Paystack and Flutterwave as examples of Nigerian startups that successfully anticipated industry trends. “They didn’t just solve payment issues; they foresaw the rise of e-commerce and remote work, building scalable solutions to meet these needs. Similarly, startups like Tizeti are addressing internet accessibility by providing affordable Wi-Fi to underserved areas,” he explained.
To develop a futurist mindset, Adebayo advised product managers to ask critical questions about emerging technologies and shifting consumer expectations. He stressed the importance of making products accessible to diverse users, saying, “With the growing adoption of digital banking, fintech product managers must consider how to serve people without smartphones. What if financial services could be accessed via feature phones or offline channels? These are the kinds of questions futurist-thinking product managers should ask.”
Beyond individual growth, Adebayo emphasized the importance of mentorship in fostering a futurist mindset among younger professionals. “I encourage product managers to think beyond their immediate tasks, learn about culture, economics, and regulations, and remain curious. Understanding these factors helps us anticipate changes and innovate effectively,” he said.
Urging product managers to embrace lifelong learning and collaboration, Adebayo concluded, “Thinking like a futurist isn’t about getting everything right; it’s about being prepared to make smart moves when opportunities arise. The future isn’t waiting for anyone, so let’s start creating it today.”
