Harvesting Innovation: Conrad on Robotics in the Fresh Produce Industry | Ep 184 | DevReady Podcast

In this episode of the DevReady Podcast, Andrew Romeo interviews Conrad Guimaraes, a Product Manager at Lyro Robotics. Conrad shares his fascinating journey from Brazil to Australia, detailing his diverse experiences in product management across various industries. He contrasts the heavily regulated energy sector with the dynamic world of startups, illustrating the challenges of navigating bureaucratic processes while striving to balance fairness for consumers and businesses. Throughout the discussion, Conrad emphasises the critical role of stakeholder engagement and thorough technical research in successful product development, as well as the exciting intersection of robotics and fresh produce, where his current work is making an impact.

As the conversation unfolds, Conrad recounts his transition from the regulatory environment to a more commercially driven, tech-focused setting. He highlights his experience with a fintech company developing innovative energy solutions for solar customers, where he thrived in a team that operated like a startup within a larger scale-up. This unique structure allowed for greater independence and a tailored approach to product development, fostering a culture of experimentation and learning that is vital for navigating the complexities of the energy market. Conrad underlines the importance of collaboration and building a solid foundation for new product lines to succeed.

The episode delves into the challenges of the B2B2C model, through an example of working with solar installers. Andrew and Conrad discuss the complexities of understanding the incentives and business models of these installers, who often find more lucrative margins in their primary services compared to selling batteries. A key focus is on automating compliance processes to alleviate burdens on installers, making it easier for them to issue quotes and maintain regulatory standards. The conversation offers critical insights into navigating the B2B landscape and the importance of supporting distribution partners to effectively reach end customers.

Conrad also shares insights on the innovations and challenges within the robotics sector, particularly at Lyro, which transitioned from research to commercial applications after winning an Amazon competition. The company focuses on developing robotic arms that can efficiently pick and pack variable produce such as avocados and cucumbers. He discusses the intricacies of designing technology to handle different weights, sizes, and conditions of fruits and vegetables while adapting to the rapidly evolving tech landscape. The conversation highlights significant advancements in robotics and the excitement surrounding future developments in this field.

Further into the episode, Andrew and Conrad explore the complexities of managing stakeholders in early-stage startups, emphasising the need for product managers to build strong relationships with founders. Conrad advises that effective product managers must maintain transparency, provide honest feedback, and balance responsiveness with market data. He stresses the importance of adaptability and focusing on core features that genuinely meet customer needs instead of falling into the trap of becoming a "feature factory."

Finally, Conrad discusses the significance of having a well-defined product strategy, noting that many founders struggle to articulate their vision, leading to unfocused product development. He advocates for a concentrated approach on core features, treating the product strategy as a living document that evolves based on customer feedback and market dynamics. The episode concludes with a discussion on the necessity of strategic investment and user research in tech companies, underscoring the value of data-driven product decisions and transparency in metrics interpretation to enhance customer retention.