Beyond products, a blueprint for lasting businesses

The entrepreneurial legacy of the late Shoaib Ahmed was celebrated with the posthumous launch of his book, The Product Code, an insightful guide to building successful products while fostering the values that create enduring businesses. The event featured Irfan Razack, Chairman and Managing Director of Prestige Group, as the keynote speaker, who reflected on the importance of trust, relationships and values in building lasting enterprises, themes that lie at the heart of Ahmed's book.

More than a handbook on product development, The Product Code chronicles Ahmed's decadeslong entrepreneurial journey, sharing the experiences, decisions and lessons that shaped his approach to innovation, leadership, customer trust and sustainable growth. Drawing from his work with Shoper, Tally and other ventures, the book offers practical insights for entrepreneurs, business leaders, professionals and students.

It argues that successful products are built not only through technical excellence but also through integrity, customer-centric thinking, teamwork and long-term vision. The launch also featured an engaging panel discussion with industry leaders who reflected on Ahmed's entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of building products in India and the timeless principles that continue to inspire innovators.

Revathi Kasturi, Founder of LAQSH Job Skills Academy, described the book as essential reading for aspiring entrepreneurs. "For anyone considering an entrepreneurial journey, this is essential reading. It captures not only what entrepreneurship looks like from the outside but also what it feels like from the inside," she said. Tony Thomas, CoFounder of Zoho, said the book reminds entrepreneurs that building a successful company goes far beyond technology.

"It reminds us that building a successful product company isn't only about creating great technology. It's about understanding customers, recognising market realities, nurturing relationships and appreciating the people who make the journey possible," he said. Panelists Kiran Ramakrishna, Founder and CEO of Rubick.ai, and Sharad Sharma, Co-Founder of iSPIRT Foundation, also highlighted the book's practical lessons and lasting relevance for future entrepreneurs. The discussion was moderated by Ravichandar, Chairman of Feedback Consulting.