Microsoft·Product Manager·Onsite - Product Sense / Strategy·Senior

SeniorPrefer not to say

May 2026

Summary

Microsoft product design interview, one question about accessibility for a core communication tool. Short session, but the question had more depth than I expected going in.

Questions Asked (1)

Design an email application for blind users.

Product Sense & IdeationSystem DesignAdaptability & Ambiguity

Author's notes

I jumped straight into screen reader support and keyboard navigation like that was the whole answer.

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AI HintsAI Generated

Suggested Approach

Start by clarifying the scope and understanding the unique needs of blind users through accessibility personas. Then, design the email application with a focus on screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, and voice interaction, ensuring seamless integration with assistive technologies. Finally, prioritize features that enhance productivity and independence, such as advanced search and filtering via voice commands.

Pro tip: Emphasize the importance of testing with actual blind users and adhering to WCAG guidelines; this demonstrates a user-centric approach and technical depth that Microsoft values.

1. Clarify and Define

Ask clarifying questions to understand the target users, platform (desktop/mobile), and specific accessibility requirements. Define the core problem and success metrics.

2. User Research and Personas

Outline key user personas for blind users, considering varying levels of tech proficiency and use cases (personal, professional). Identify pain points with existing email clients.

3. Design Principles and Features

Propose design principles: screen reader compatibility, full keyboard navigation, voice commands, and high-contrast visuals. List must-have features like text-to-speech, voice dictation, and customizable shortcuts.

4. Technical Architecture and Integration

Discuss integration with existing assistive technologies (e.g., Narrator, JAWS, NVDA) and platforms (Windows, iOS, Android). Consider backend support for voice processing and accessibility APIs.

5. Testing and Iteration

Describe a testing plan with blind users, including usability studies and accessibility audits. Outline metrics for success and a roadmap for iterative improvements.

Key Points to Mention

Adherence to WCAG 2.1 guidelines and accessibility standards
Screen reader compatibility and keyboard-only navigation
Voice interaction for composing, reading, and managing emails
Customizable user interface and shortcuts for efficiency
Integration with Microsoft's accessibility features (e.g., Narrator, Seeing AI)
Importance of user testing with blind users and iterative design

AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.