Product Engineering or IT: What's the Right Model?

Driving Next-Gen Platforms with Product Engineering
Frugal Scientific is investing heavily in the Product Engineering approach to build complex next-generation platforms. Their newly created startup studio framework specifically targets the product engineering lifecycle, building platforms from initial concept through continuous evolution as a product—not just a project.

1. Betting on Product Engineering: A New Era for
Complex Platform Engineering
Driving Next-Gen Platforms with Product Engineering
Frugal Scientific is investing heavily in the Product Engineering approach to build complex
next-generation platforms. Their newly created startup studio framework specifically
targets the product engineering lifecycle, building platforms from initial concept through
continuous evolution as a product—not just a project.
What Sets Product Engineering Apart?
Team Composition and Focus
Product Engineering teams are cross-functional, including Product Managers,
UX/UI Designers, DevOps, AI/ML Engineers, and QA specialists driving continuous
product innovation and evolution.
The workflow uses agile methodologies, rapid prototyping, and A/B testing,
enabling quick iterations based on real user feedback.
In contrast, IT Services teams consist primarily of Project Managers, developers,
and support staff focused on delivering specific client requirements within defined
contracts.
The IT services model typically leans on process-heavy frameworks such as ITIL, ISO,
and CMMI aimed at project delivery and operational efficiency.
User and Engagement Orientation
Product Engineering assumes end users are customers whose experience and
success are paramount. Engagements prioritize B2B or B2C adoption with ongoing
product upgrades and customer success.
IT Services view end users as clients outsourcing work, focusing on project delivery
or managed service contracts governed by SLAs.

2. Innovation, Ownership, and Scalability
Product engineering is about building scalable, innovative, often IP-driven
software products or platforms, owning the entire product lifecycle. Typical
examples include AI-powered stock prediction platforms or SaaS freight index
systems.
IT services deliver customized client solutions or ongoing support, prioritizing
service delivery efficiency and execution. Examples include custom app development
or outsourced IT support for sectors like banking.
Why to Choose Frugal Scientific’s Startup Studio Framework
Frugal Scientific’s startup studio framework leverages the strengths of product engineering
to foster breakthrough innovation and sustainable platform growth. This means
assembling diverse expert teams who iterate rapidly, focus intensely on customer
outcomes, and embrace full ownership of product success—far beyond traditional IT
service delivery boundaries.