Airbnb’s Product Spec Template

What is the Airbnb Product Spec Template?

This template is designed to outline and communicate the essential elements of a product idea. It serves as a guide for teams to ensure all aspects of the product are considered, from identifying the problem it aims to solve to defining the target audience. This template facilitates collaboration across departments, ensuring everyone is aligned on the project’s goals and execution strategy.

How Does the Airbnb Product Spec Template Help?

1. Clear Problem Identification

The template begins with a focused problem statement, which clarifies what issue the product addresses. This ensures that the team is aligned on the core challenge, guiding discussions and decisions throughout the product development process.

2. Audience Definition

By identifying the Ideal Customer Profiles (ICPs), teams can tailor the product’s features and marketing strategies to meet the specific needs of target users. This alignment helps in creating a more relevant and impactful product.

3. Structured Execution Plan

The template outlines key elements such as the "What?" and "How?" sections, prompting teams to think through the product’s functionality and execution strategy. This structured approach minimises ambiguity and fosters a clear path from concept to launch.

4. Milestones and Feedback

With a section dedicated to milestones and open questions, the template encourages continuous communication and feedback within the team. This ensures that potential issues are addressed early, keeping the project on track.

5. Task Management Integration

The template links to a task management table, allowing teams to keep track of action items and responsibilities. This integration supports accountability and ensures that the project progresses smoothly towards its goals.

How to Use This Template in Your Workflow

Step 1: Version Control

Document the version history at the top of the template to track changes and updates made to the spec over time.

Step 2: Project Team

Identify and list the project team members, specifying their roles and providing contact points for clarifications on different aspects of the project.

Step 3: Problem Definition

Clearly outline the problem your product aims to solve. Provide evidence or insights that demonstrate the significance of this problem and why it is worth addressing.

Step 4: Audience Identification

Define your Ideal Customer Profiles (ICPs) using the provided table. This helps in understanding who will benefit from the product and ensures the product is tailored to meet their needs.

Step 5: Conceptualisation

Describe what the product will roughly look like. Utilise visual aids like mind maps or diagrams to help visualise the project concept for better understanding.

Step 6: Execution Strategy

Outline how the product will be executed. Include wireframes and other execution steps to manifest your ideas clearly and guide the development process.

Step 7: Timeline and Milestones

Establish when the product is expected to ship and detail the major milestones throughout the development process to keep the project on track.

Step 8: Team Feedback

Provide a section for team members to list any questions or feedback regarding the spec. This fosters collaboration and ensures all team members are aligned.