Game Producer and Product Lead

Justin
Prate

Hi, I'm Justin Prate, a Product Lead with over 15 years of experience in the games and tech industry. I'm passionate about creating products that delight users while solving real problems and making people's lives easier and better.

I've worked on a wide variety of products throughout my career, including games on PC and console, mobile games and apps, and complete enterprise software solutions. I enjoy the challenge of taking on new projects or stepping into existing products and leveraging my skills to deliver high-quality results. I am proud of all of the projects I have worked on but a couple of them that I am most proud of are being the lead designer on the School of Dragons game and leading a team of developers and designers in the successful launch of a new asynchronous multiplayer framework within a closed social network software application. Both projects required a lot of planning, collaboration, and attention to detail. With the multiplayer games framework, I am thrilled with the results we achieved with creating a new way to allow our users to connect through the power of games.

When I'm not working on new product ideas, you can usually find me hanging out with my family, working on our small farm, working on items for my Etsy Shop, or gaming. I believe in living life to the fullest and pursuing my passions with enthusiasm and dedication.


LinkedIn Profile

Recent Work Experience

GrandPad, Senior Product Manager - Games & Engagement

March 2022 - Present

I'm passionate about leveraging technology to create meaningful connections and experiences. At GrandPad, I'm proud to be part of a team that is redefining how seniors interact with technology. My focus lies at the intersection of technology, entertainment, and enhancing the lives of seniors. I specialize in curating and delivering captivating gaming and engagement features for the GrandPad platform.

My Impact:

In my role at GrandPad, I've been instrumental in developing and executing a comprehensive product strategy that aligns with the company's commitment to transforming the tech landscape for seniors. From ideation to execution, I bring a user-centric approach to ensure our games and engagement features are not just entertaining but also intuitively designed for our senior demographic.

Major Initiatives:

  • I spearheaded the addition of an asynchronous multiplayer game system to our platform. This feature allows our users to connect in a whole new way by playing select turn-based games that notify you when it's your turn—adding a layer of excitement and interaction our platform has never had. We currently have added Checkers, Chess, and Yahtzy.

  • Another milestone initiative was enabling the ability to play games seamlessly during video calls. This not only enhances the gaming experience but also allows seniors to connect with family members in a new and fun way, fostering meaningful connections.

  • I led the development of a cutting-edge AI companion feature that leverages technologies like ChatGPT, speech-to-text, and text-to-speech. This feature not only brings a new level of accessibility to our platform but also introduces a personalized and interactive experience for our users. Learn more at grandie.ai or on GrandPad.net.

Key Strengths:

  • I have a proven track record of crafting and executing product strategies that are aligned with business objectives. I take pride in my ability to translate high-level goals into actionable plans that drive success.

  • I'm passionate about advocating for an exceptional user experience that is tailored to our user's needs. I believe that every one of our users deserves to have access to technology that is easy to use and designed with their specific needs in mind.

  • I'm proud to lead a small and dynamic team. I foster a collaborative and innovative environment where every team member's unique strengths contribute to our shared success. Together, we turn ideas into impactful features that delight our users.

  • I have a strong ability to analyze data and identify trends and patterns. I use this information to make data-driven decisions that improve product performance and user satisfaction.

Why Games and Engagement:

I'm passionate about using technology to create meaningful connections and experiences. Games and engagement are key to fostering joy, connection, and exploration. Games can bridge generational gaps and bring people together over shared interests. I'm proud to be part of the GrandPad team that is redefining how seniors interact with technology.

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Diggames - Etsy Shop

March 2023 - Present

I'm excited to share a significant chapter in my entrepreneurial journey! Since March 2023, I've been steering the ship at Diggames.com, a passion project turned thriving Etsy store. I've poured my heart into crafting unique and eye-catching items that resonate with gaming enthusiasts. I carefully select premium items to ensure the utmost comfort for our customers. When you choose Diggames, you're not just getting a gaming item– you're joining a club of gamers who appreciate quality, comfort, and style.

Crafting Designs:

Every product at Diggames.com is a product of creativity and care. From conceptualization to design, I've poured my heart into crafting unique and eye-catching items that resonate with gaming enthusiasts. I carefully select premium items to ensure the utmost comfort for our customers. When you choose Diggames, you're not just getting a gaming item– you're joining a club of gamers who appreciate quality, comfort, and style.

Running Marketing Campaigns:

In the vast digital landscape, marketing is key. I've dipped my toes in the dynamic world of digital marketing, strategizing and executing campaigns to amplify the presence of Diggames. I have run Facebook and Instagram campaigns and worked with Micro-Influencers on those platforms. It's not just about products; it's about building a community around a shared love for gaming.

What Drives Diggames.com:

I started Diggames with the simple goal of creating cool gaming-themed shirts that my kids and friends would love to wear. I wanted to offer quality items that looked great and felt comfortable. I carefully select premium items to ensure the utmost comfort for my customers.

DIGGAMES was created by a gamer for others who love games: I live and breathe gaming, and my goal is to provide fellow gamers with merchandise that celebrates our love for the industry.

 

Gallup top 5 strengths

  • Strategic

  • Positivity

  • Ideation

  • Achiever

  • Developer

Education

Southern New Hampshire University

Master of Science (MS), Information Technology Field Of Study Game Design and Development Grade 3.923 Graduated 2019

Westwood College - Denver North

Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Game Art and Design Graduated 2007

Certifications

Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)

Scrum Alliance

Certified Agile Leadership Essentials

Scrum Alliance

Contact

Use the contact button below or reach out on LinkedIn


LinkedIn