About Beyond the Backlog
Beyond the Backlog is a free, ever-evolving resource for both Product Management professionals and anyone interested in what it takes to create winning products. It aims to provide valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating the complex landscape of Product Management and product development.
From ideation and market research to product development, launch, and beyond, each article will endeavor to explore key concepts, frameworks, and methodologies, and when possible will offer practical examples providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of how to manage products throughout their lifecycle effectively.
With an emphasis on taking a customer-centric approach, leveraging data, and continuously improving products to succeed in dynamic markets, Beyond the Backlog intends to be an invaluable resource for both aspiring Product Managers looking to pursue a career in the field, and experienced professionals seeking to stay up to date on industry trends or simply enhance or refresh their existing skill set.
About Matt Hicks
I’m a former Product Management executive with over 30 years of experience in leading award-winning product teams.
I’ve held various product-related positions including Director of Product Strategy at Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) in Portland, Oregon, and Director of Product Development at Momentum Market Intelligence in Portland, Oregon. In these roles, I’ve had the pleasure of partnering with many tech giants including Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Nokia, and IBM Global Services.
In the early 2000’s I co-founded eoVision, LLC, a successful e-commerce Internet consulting firm based in Wichita, Kansas. As the Vice President of Product Development, I guided the agency in building numerous high-profile Internet, e-commerce, mobile, and game console projects. Today I retain a keen interest in technology, investing in numerous key next-generation platform and technology providers.
Throughout my career, I’ve been committed to excellence and professional growth. I have also shared my expertise as an adjunct faculty member at Wichita State University, teaching courses on online marketing, e-commerce strategy, and UX/UI design.
I’m an active member of the Association of International Product Marketing & Management (AIPMM) and the Scrum Alliance. As the principal founder of Beyond the Backlog, I hope to continue to contribute to shaping the industry and inspiring Product Management professionals with my hands-on experience.
When I’m not blogging, I spend my time between thru-hiking, wild camping, and slow traveling.
Feel free to check out my travels on Instagram.

Get in Touch
Please feel free to reach out and get in touch. I’d love to hear from you with any inquiries or questions you may have, or perhaps you’re interested in scheduling a 1:1 coaching session or discussing consulting opportunities.
Email me at: MattHicks7@Gmail.com, or give me a call on: 503 893 5558. I look forward to hearing from you.
