What is Feature Prioritization?

Every product team faces the same challenge: a backlog of 100+ feature requests and resources to build 10. Feature prioritization frameworks bring objectivity to this inherently subjective decision. RICE scores features on Reach (how many users affected), Impact (how much it affects them), Confidence (certainty of estimates), divided by Effort (engineering time). MoSCoW categorizes features as Must-have, Should-have, Could-have, or Won't-have.

The Kano model provides a different lens: distinguishing between basic expectations (features that customers notice only when missing), performance features (more is better, linearly), and delight features (unexpected capabilities that create disproportionate satisfaction). This helps balance foundational improvements with innovative features.

In case interviews, feature prioritization tests strategic thinking under constraints. If a product manager has one quarter of engineering time, what should they build? Avoid the trap of recommending every feature—demonstrate selectivity by evaluating trade-offs. Consider which features drive the most important business metric (e.g., retention vs. acquisition) and which align with the company's competitive strategy.