I picked Google Maps because I figured talking about a Google product would show I'd done my homework.
Choose a product you know well and frame the answer around the user problem it solves, then systematically identify competitors by looking at direct, indirect, and potential alternatives. Show structured thinking by segmenting the market and using frameworks like Porter's Five Forces or jobs-to-be-done to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Pro tip: Tie your competitor analysis back to product strategy by discussing how you would prioritize which competitors to monitor and what metrics you'd track to inform engineering decisions.
Clearly state the product you've chosen and articulate the primary user problem it solves. This establishes the basis for identifying competitors.
List products that solve the same problem for the same target audience in a similar way. These are the most obvious competitors.
Consider products that solve the same problem differently or address adjacent needs. Include manual methods, open-source alternatives, or DIY solutions.
For each competitor, assess their strengths, weaknesses, market share, and differentiation. Use frameworks like SWOT or feature comparison matrices.
Determine which competitors are most critical to monitor and what insights can inform product strategy, such as gaps or opportunities.
AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.