Product Manager Memes

Practical Tips for Product Managers Reviewing a Backlog for the First Time

Don’t Panic — Prioritise by Value, Not Volume The backlog will always look endless. Start by identifying which items deliver impact, not just what’s been there the longest. Ask ‘Why’ Before ‘What’ Every ticket should have a reason to exist. If you can’t find a clear “why,” it’s a candidate for archiving or re-evaluation. Group, Don’t Grind Cluster related items by theme or objective. It’s easier to make strategic decisions when you see patterns instead of chaos. Use the ‘Now / Next / Later / Never’ Framework Bring order to the mess by sorting items based on time horizons and importance. This clarifies what deserves attention. Collaborate, Don’t Clean Alone Invite engineers, designers, or stakeholders to weigh in. You’ll uncover dependencies and save time debating later. Be Ruthless with Old Items If it’s been untouched for six months and no one remembers it — archive it. A lighter backlog equals a clearer mind. Set a Maintenance Rhythm Backlog grooming isn’t a one-time cleanse. Schedule a monthly review to prevent the “scroll of doom” from growing again.