Success metrics that matter

Product managers measure success through product outcomes, not personal output.

Key indicators include:

• Recurring revenue, which shows sustainable business value.
• User retention rates demonstrate ongoing product-market fit.
• Customer satisfaction scores reflect actual user value delivery.

These metrics interconnect in meaningful ways. Satisfaction can support retention, but long-term value creation also depends on market fit and whether the business model captures that value. PMs also monitor leading indicators like activation rates and feature adoption to predict future success. Unlike vanity metrics such as page views or download numbers, meaningful PM metrics directly tie to business objectives and user outcomes. The best metrics tell a story about sustainable growth and real value creation.