Operating Principle

2–4 min read

Successful Innovations Rarely Look Like the Original Plan

Successful Innovations Rarely Look Like the Original Plan

Successful Innovations Rarely Look Like the Original Plan

Successful innovations usually change substantially through evidence-based pivots.

Successful innovations usually change substantially through evidence-based pivots.

Successful innovations usually change substantially through evidence-based pivots.

The original concept is a hypothesis, not a delivery target.

The original concept is a hypothesis, not a delivery target.

The original concept is a hypothesis, not a delivery target.

The original concept is a hypothesis, not a delivery target.

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Operating Question

What assumption, incentive, capability, or handoff is determining whether this innovation can progress?

What assumption, incentive, capability, or handoff is determining whether this innovation can progress?

What assumption, incentive, capability, or handoff is determining whether this innovation can progress?

Why It Matters

The original concept is a hypothesis, not a delivery target.

Supporting Evidence

Eric Ries, “The Lean Startup”; Steve Blank.

Research Notes

Match the innovation approach to uncertainty, capital intensity, and the stage of commercialization.

Practical Actions

Treat plans as hypotheses; review evidence; reward iteration over rigid adherence.

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