ResourcesBlogProduct Strategy – Disney’s Hulu Acquisition

Product Strategy – Disney’s Hulu Acquisition

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As a dedicated Disney and Hulu enthusiast, and a passionate product fanatic deeply immersed in the most effective modern product strategies of a product manager, I found myself engrossed in Disney’s recent acquisition, gaining full control of Hulu. This strategic move not only reflects Disney’s commitment to product strategy principles but also aligns seamlessly with the comprehensive product manager job description. 

Product Strategy: Outcomes Over Outputs 

One of the key tenets of effective product manager responsibilities, as outlined by leading experts like the Productside, is the emphasis on outcomes over outputs (Productside’s Leader Pack helps with this). This principle underscores the importance of not merely focusing on building features or shipping products, but rather on achieving specific results for users. 

In the context of Hulu, Disney strategically aligns with the product manager role by concentrating on the following outcomes: 

  • Expanding Audience Reach: Hulu has a strong library of original programming that appeals to adults, a demographic that Disney has not traditionally been as strong in. By acquiring Hulu, Disney is able to reach more adults and offer them a wider range of content to choose from. 
  • Enhancing User Engagement: Hulu users are more engaged than users of other streaming platforms. This is likely due to Hulu’s strong library of original programming and its personalized recommendations. By acquiring Hulu, Disney can increase engagement among its users and keep them coming back for more. 
  • Boosting Revenue Generation: Hulu is a profitable streaming service. By acquiring Hulu, Disney can generate more revenue from its streaming business. 

Customer Needs Impacting Product Strategy

Embedded within the product manager job description is a deep understanding of customer needs, a principle that Disney has embraced wholeheartedly in its strategic acquisition of Hulu (grab Productside’s Persona Pack to help with this). Recognizing the evolving landscape, where adults are increasingly cutting cable ties, Disney strategically meets the requirements outlined in the product manager responsibilities by offering an affordable streaming alternative with Hulu. 

Moreover, Disney acknowledges that adults seek high-quality original programming, a facet intricately woven into the product manager role. With Hulu’s robust library featuring acclaimed shows such as “The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Only Murders in the Building,” and “Pam & Tommy,” Disney, in acquiring Hulu, takes a deliberate step to offer customers a broader selection of premium original programming. 

Disney’s Acquisition: A Strategic Product Launch Plan 

In essence, Disney’s acquisition of Hulu embodies a meticulously planned product strategy. This move underscores Disney’s commitment to product vision and its role in addressing the ever-evolving needs of its customers. The calculated decision to acquire Hulu not only aligns with the Productside’s insights into effective product manager responsibilities but also positions Disney as a leader in leveraging product strategy for strategic growth. 

In conclusion, Disney’s acquisition of Hulu stands as a testament to its strategic product strategy, focusing on outcomes, understanding customer needs, and executing a well-defined product launch plan. This calculated move is poised to empower Disney in meeting the expectations outlined in the product manager job description and creating a more engaging streaming experience for all.

Let Me Help You in Your Product Management Journey

For those who are passionate about mastering the art of product management, I’m excited to announce my upcoming ‘Optimal Product Management’ class in December https://lnkd.in/g-dvwUsM]. In this course, we’ll delve deep into these product management principles and more, exploring how to apply them to your own projects and create extraordinary experiences for your audience.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Joe Ghali
Principal Consultant & Trainer

Joe Ghali is a Principal Consultant and Trainer at 280 Group. He has over 20 years of experience in Product Management working for Fortune 100 & 500 organizations. Joe’s experience includes working in a variety of industries including travel, publishing, financial services, manufacturing, and consumer packaged goods. He has been part of several significant product launches throughout his career and is passionate about the Product Management and Change Management space. Outside of work, he is an active participant in several Product Management roundtables and has been a PM and PO mentor.

His experience as both Product Manager, Change Management practitioner and Product Owner has given a strong conviction that the most successful products are the result of strong Product and Agile teams who are transparent, collaborative, and vulnerable. He believes that product management is a team sport 100%.

Joe has a Bachelor of Science (IT- College of Business) from Marquette University as well as an MBA from Marquette University (focus on Marketing). Joe is Change Management certified and holds several Product Manager/Owner certifications.

Joe and his family are active outside the house. He and his wife have participated in several marathons. Joe is also a volunteer softball coach for his youngest daughter. At the moment, they are spending their free time attending their daughter’s (17 and 14) cross country, track and softball games.

November 23, 2023