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

Senior
May 2026

Summary

Got a product design question for a Google PM role, pretty open-ended stuff about reimagining a physical product through a tech lens. One question, no frills.

Questions Asked (1)

Q1

If Google were to enter the elevator industry, how would you design a next-generation elevator?

Product Sense & IdeationProduct StrategySystem Design
Author's notes

I went straight to user pain points which felt right but I spent way too long on the obvious stuff like wait times and accessibility.

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AI HintsAI Generated

Suggested Approach

Start by clarifying Google's strategic rationale for entering the elevator industry, then define the target user segments and their pain points. Focus on how Google's core strengths in AI, cloud, and data can transform the elevator from a commodity into an intelligent, connected service.

Pro tip: Emphasize that the elevator is not just hardware but a platform for services and data; this shifts the discussion from mechanical engineering to product innovation, which is more relevant for a PM role.

1. Clarify the Goal

Ask questions to understand why Google would enter this space and what success looks like. This ensures your design aligns with business objectives.

2. Identify Users & Pain Points

Segment users (e.g., building managers, passengers, maintenance crews) and map their key frustrations with current elevators.

3. Leverage Google's Strengths

Brainstorm how Google's AI, cloud, data analytics, and ecosystem (e.g., Android, Assistant) can create differentiated value.

4. Design the Solution

Propose a next-gen elevator concept that addresses pain points and leverages strengths, focusing on key features and user experience.

5. Prioritize & Validate

Discuss how to prioritize features based on impact and feasibility, and outline a plan to test assumptions with prototypes or pilots.

Key Points to Mention

  • Predictive maintenance using IoT sensors and AI to reduce downtime
  • Personalized passenger experience via smartphone integration and voice control
  • Energy efficiency and sustainability through smart routing and regenerative drives
  • Data-driven insights for building optimization and space utilization
  • Integration with Google's ecosystem (e.g., Google Assistant, Maps, Nest)
  • Scalability and security considerations for a cloud-connected platform

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