Lessons About B2B SaaS Product Management to Cultural Considerations for Building Global Products | Wilson Wei, Product Manager at Litify and Veeva Systems

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Wilson Wei is a global B2B SaaS Product Manager with a wealth of experience across multiple industries. Wilson has managed high-profile projects at companies like Veeva Systems, where he successfully implemented Vault Quality Management Systems, generating over $3 million in revenue and spearheading 20+ go-lives across global pharmaceutical enterprises like Eli Lilly, Pfizer, and Moderna. Wilson has also incredible Product experience at Litify, a legal-tech platform. In our conversation, we delve into:

• Challenges of execution in startups

• Importance of industry knowledge

• How cultural factors influence business practices

• Significance of hands-on leadership and persistence

• How AI could shape the future of productivity

• Importance of long-term vision

• And so much more

Some takeaways:

1. Success often requires you to balance persistence with patience. While determination is crucial for achieving long-term goals, understanding when to slow down and change your approach can be equally important. Remember, progress is incremental. Baby steps matter, and it’s okay to take them.

2. Prioritize User experience in Product design. A seamless interaction, such as efficient transfers in public transit systems, enhances user satisfaction and creates a positive perception of the service. A keen focus on user experience and attention to detail can differentiate a product, making it more appealing and memorable to the users. Furthermore, building a product that anticipates user needs can significantly improve overall engagement and loyalty.

3. The results of big events often come down to how well you’ve prepared beforehand. Doing the hard work beforehand can help ease the nerves and improve performance when it really matters. It also builds confidence, letting you concentrate on what you need to do rather than worrying about the outcome. This mindset applies to many areas of life, whether it’s competing in sports or delivering a presentation at work.

4. Enjoy the process of reaching your goals instead of just focusing on the end result. Many successful entrepreneurs emphasize that the grind, the late nights, and the challenges are all part of the journey. Appreciating these experiences not only makes the journey more enjoyable but also contributes to personal growth and resilience. Remember, the path you take often teaches you valuable lessons that will help you in the long run.

5. AI is set to change how we work and live, making us more productive and easing some of the challenges we face daily. As it evolves, we can expect AI to take care of tedious tasks, allowing us to focus on what truly matters. While AI isn’t perfect yet, it serves as a helpful starting point for drafting ideas and plans.

6. Creating a strong community is essential for personal and professional growth. Networking is not just about making contacts; it’s about forming genuine relationships that can lead to collaboration and support. Engaging with others who share your interests can open up new opportunities and perspectives.

7. Executing ideas in a startup can be tough due to limited resources and the need for agility. Founders often find it hard to strike a balance between staying flexible and having the right structures in place. Effective communication is critical, but in a fast-paced environment, it can be easy for messages to get lost. Regular check-ins and clear documentation help ensure that everyone is on the same page and focused on the same goals.

8. Scaling internationally brings its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to understanding different cultures. Each market has its own unique consumer behaviors and cultural norms, and companies must adapt their products and strategies accordingly. Navigating diverse regulatory environments can also complicate things, as local laws vary significantly.

Where to find Wilson Wei:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swilsonwei/

• X: https://x.com/wilson_sww

• Blog: https://www.wfhnomad.com/

• Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6aH4VtcGHvRIeUgGxoAaYD?si=0219c1103fad4be6 

In this episode, we cover:

• 01:18 Introduction

• 03:45 Exploring Tech Ecosystems Around the World

• 12:06 Talking B2B SaaS Product Management

• 14:53 Vertical vs Horizontal SaaS

• 22:11 Challenges of Scaling Tech Products Internationally

• 27:23 How Swimming Influenced Wilson’s Path as a Product Manager

• 35:12 The Importance of Preparation and Habits

• 39:59 The Potential Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Legal Industry

• 45:49 The Fast Five Questions

References:

• Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology - https://www.amazon.com/Chip-War-Worlds-Critical-Technology/dp/1982172002

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