Developer Relations programs typically grow from platforms that have matured over time, providing the foundation for building out robust developer programs and outreach. When exploring the value of developer relations a question arises here, does developer relations have value before a platform has launched and as its features are first developed for developer and partner consumption? In this talk we’ll explore the answer to that question, looking at: · How developer relations should be used to define the early developer experience and product decisions. · Methods and techniques for working in tandem with sales, business development, and marketing to define the first personas, partners, and customers. · Defining the growth paths, operational programs, and cross-functional initiatives to drive platform success long-term. While exploring these techniques and methods you’ll see how these concepts can be applied to build a developer relations program, at any maturity level, that is tightly tied into the core functions of the business, from product, engineering, and architecture to business development, sales, and marketing.