The Product-Minded Engineer: Building Impactful Software for Your Users

by Drew Hoskins

In the fast-paced world of software engineering, developing technical skills often takes precedence. However, if you're seeking career advancement, enhancing your technical skills alone is not enough; you also need to deepen your empathy for users—a skill frequently overlooked in traditional engineering roles. Understanding user needs and the broader impact of your work will not only lead to better products but will also help your career grow and flourish.


Drawing on over 20 years of experience, including roles at Microsoft, Facebook, Stripe, and Temporal Technologies, author Drew Hoskins guides you through the essential strategies to bridge the gap between engineering prowess and product insight. Whether you're building consumer products, tools for professionals, or internal platforms, this book is your gateway to becoming a well-rounded engineer who sees around corners and innovates according to user needs.


Simulate and predict user interactions to enhance product usability
Sharpen your focus on the specific needs of your target audience
Engage with users effectively to gather impactful feedback
Prioritize your time and product roadmap strategically based on user impact

268 pages, Paperback

Published December 16, 2025