Successful Tech Firms Thrive on Customer Insights, Not Guesswork — Oguntayo
The Journey of Empowerment Through Technology
Olawale Oguntayo, the founder of Techrevolve and a Technical Product Manager at Crawlbase, has always believed in the transformative power of technology. In a conversation with IFEDAYO OGUNYEMI, he shared insights on how young people can unlock valuable knowledge and make informed decisions, as well as the myths surrounding entering the tech industry.
Oguntayo's realization that technology could be more than just a career path came from a pivotal moment in his professional life. While working as the Head of Card Operations at CredPal, his boss, Amala, taught him how to use mail merge. This seemingly simple skill revolutionized his workflow, allowing him to automate the creation of hundreds of customer letters. That experience highlighted the potential of even small skills to enhance efficiency and confidence, shaping his perspective on technology as a tool for empowerment.
His journey into mentoring early-career professionals revealed several misconceptions about product roles. One common belief is that only those with extensive tech experience can succeed in product management. However, Oguntayo emphasizes that transferable skills such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership are equally important. Another misconception is that product managers work in isolation. In reality, collaboration with engineers, designers, and customers is essential, and success often depends on asking the right questions rather than making unilateral decisions.
Oguntayo also noticed a gap in the tech ecosystem: many young aspirants lacked access to structured user feedback. This inspired him to create Techrevolve, a platform that helps individuals and businesses validate their ideas through direct user input. By bridging this gap, he aims to reduce guesswork and support young innovators in building products that truly meet user needs.
The Unique Strengths of African Talent
Young African talents bring resilience, creativity, and adaptability to global tech teams. They have learned to innovate under constraints, which fosters resourcefulness and a strong drive to learn. These qualities make them valuable assets in environments where problem-solving and adaptability are crucial.
Product leaders, however, face challenges such as limited resources and exposure. Oguntayo suggests that prioritizing clarity and consistent communication can help overcome these barriers. Clear direction and strong execution habits enable teams to function effectively, even with limited resources.
Leveraging Data Literacy
Data literacy, even at a basic level, is a powerful tool for young professionals. Skills like interpreting trends, understanding user behavior, and analyzing results can set individuals apart in the job market. Oguntayo’s philosophy—“In God I trust, everyone else must bring data”—highlights the importance of evidence-based decision-making.
Fintech has provided valuable lessons for building products that address real human needs. It teaches the importance of removing friction and understanding the emotional aspects of user interactions. These principles can guide young people in creating solutions that are not only functional but also meaningful.
Staying Relevant in a Changing Landscape
As AI becomes more prevalent, young tech aspirants must balance foundational skills with adaptability. Understanding users, problem-solving, and system dynamics are areas where human judgment remains irreplaceable. Embracing new tools can enhance productivity without compromising core competencies.
Oguntayo models healthy growth habits by maintaining a balance between family, leadership, and learning. He emphasizes intentionality, discipline, and structure in achieving personal and professional goals. His approach shows that a balanced life is possible without sacrificing growth or success.
Future Opportunities and Youth Development
The tech ecosystem offers significant opportunities for young Africans, particularly in areas like data, AI support, digital trade, B2B tools, and education technology. Combining tech skills with problem-solving abilities can lead to impactful contributions.
If designing a national youth tech development program, Oguntayo would focus on three pillars: exposure to real-world problems, structured learning and collaboration, and providing opportunities for hands-on experience. These elements can shape a generation of skilled and confident contributors.
For Oguntayo, long-term impact is measured by the positive changes he can bring to people’s lives. Whether through products that improve daily experiences or through empowering young Africans to achieve their goals, his vision is centered on growth and meaningful contribution.
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