Feature Spec Template: Problem to Ship

Most feature specs fail before engineering touches them. They're written solution-first, skipping the alignment step that prevents wasted work. This template changes the sequencing. Built from a Notion-based PRD methodology from a growth-stage platform company, it structures the feature spec as a living document — problem statement, success metrics, solution, and milestones all connected into a single source of truth. The key workflow: take problem + metrics to product review before building the solution. The template enforces this with a 7-step task that won't let you skip ahead. Once the problem is approved, the solution section opens. What ships with this template: a feature spec document template (one per feature), a Spec Tracker workbook for managing all active specs by status, a Learning Database for post-ship retrospectives, and a Kanban view of the full spec pipeline from Draft to Learning. For PMs at growth-stage companies (50–500 employees) who write specs that need to survive product review, engineering planning, and the post-ship retrospective.