The CIRCLES Framework is a structured approach often used for tackling product design questions, particularly in interviews for product management or similar roles. It was created by Lewis C. Lin, a career coach specializing in interview preparation for tech companies. The framework provides a systematic way to approach and break down problems, ensuring that important aspects of the problem are considered and addressed.
“CIRCLES” is an acronym where each letter represents a step in the process:
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Comprehend the Situation: Begin by understanding the context and specifics of the problem. This involves asking clarifying questions to fully grasp the situation and the goals.
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Identify the Customer: Define who the customer or user is. Understanding the user’s needs, wants, and limitations is critical in product design.
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Report the Customer’s Needs: After identifying the customer, articulate their needs. This step involves empathizing with the user and understanding their pain points and requirements.
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Cut Through Prioritization: Prioritize the needs you’ve identified. Since it’s impossible to address all needs simultaneously, this step involves determining which needs are most critical or will have the most significant impact.
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List Solutions: Generate a list of potential solutions or features that address the prioritized needs. This step is about brainstorming and being creative.
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Evaluate Trade-offs: Every solution has its pros and cons. Evaluate these trade-offs to understand the implications of each solution, including costs, resources needed, and potential impact.
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Summarize Your Recommendation: Finally, based on the analysis, recommend the most suitable solution or approach. This recommendation should be concise, clear, and backed by the insights gathered from the previous steps.
The CIRCLES Framework is especially useful in interview situations because it demonstrates a candidate’s ability to think systematically, prioritize effectively, and communicate clearly. However, it’s also applicable in real-world product management and problem-solving scenarios, providing a clear roadmap for approaching complex issues.