Bullets Before Cannonballs

A framework for testing and scaling business initiatives through rapid experimentation and focused investment.

Core Philosophy

• Start with actionable insights from anywhere in the world
• Convert insights into "bullets" - minimal viable investments
• Scale successful bullets into "cannonballs" with full investment
• Build recipes around successful initiatives
• Maintain continuous improvement mindset

Fast-Start Testing Approach

• Create minimal viable products quickly
• Test ideas as fast as possible
• Learn what works and doesn't work rapidly
• Focus on speed of innovation
• Projects either work immediately or they don't

Continuous Improvement Strategy

• Target 2% improvement every week
• Embrace power of compounding improvements
• Maintain mindset that current performance "sucks" compared to future potential
• Look back yearly to recognize dramatic improvements
• Build systematic approach to constant enhancement

Team Building Elements

• Focus on building "grit density" over just talent density
• Look for three key qualities:
  • Grit
  • Smarts
  • Bias to action
• Prioritize "doers" who execute quickly
• Value people who learn from failures
• Seek team members who align with fast-fail mentality

Implementation Principles

• Maintain boots on the ground leadership approach
• Get hands dirty to gain insights
• Apply same DNA and approach across different verticals
• Build systematic processes around successful tests
• Scale what works through established recipes

Success Metrics

• Monitor immediate market response
• Track speed of learning and iteration
• Measure compound improvements over time
• Evaluate team execution capability
• Assess scalability of successful initiatives