intermediate · 90–90 min

The Feature Bloat and Product Debt Cleanup

Identify which features are adding value and which are just adding noise to your product.

About this session

Products frequently accumulate legacy features that complicate the user experience and strain maintenance resources without adding measurable value. This session provides a structured framework for product designers and researchers to audit their current interface and distinguish core assets from distracting noise. You will leave with a documented list of features to decommission or refit, based on collective consensus.

Why it works

The process shifts the conversation from subjective opinions to a systematic evaluation of utility and maintenance cost. By forcing teams to justify the existence of every feature against current user needs, it overrides the emotional attachment to past work and creates the necessary buy-in to simplify the product without fear of losing essential functionality.

What you’ll walk away with

  • Clear actionable outcomes from a 4-step facilitated process
  • Increased participant engagement and buy-in
  • Documented decisions and next steps
  • Improved team alignment on the topic

Who it’s for

Product Designers, UX Researchers

Frequently asked questions

Who should facilitate this workshop?

This workshop works best when led by someone comfortable with facilitation. Ideal for Product Designers or external facilitators working with design thinking teams.

How long does this workshop take?

Plan for 60-90 minutes depending on group size. The 4 activities are designed to flow together smoothly.

Run this session with METODIC

Get the full agenda, activities, timing, worksheets, and a facilitator guide for “The Feature Bloat and Product Debt Cleanup” — ready to run in minutes, for any workshop, meeting, or team session.

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