When is discovery done and what justifies moving to alpha?
Every initiative begins with uncertainty. The challenge is knowing when discovery has provided enough clarity to commit to the next phase. Progressing too quickly risks failure. Waiting too long wastes time and resources. The solution is a clear, consistent exit test.
What reviewers and leaders need to see
- Problem clarity: The need is clearly defined and agreed.
- Evidence gathered: Research shows user or customer demand and key pain points.
- Options explored: Feasible alternatives have been considered and compared.
- Decision framework applied: Trade-offs across outcomes, risks, speed, and cost are explicit using the Value Map Framework.
How this avoids waste
By applying these tests, teams avoid drifting in endless exploration or rushing forward without proof. Evidence grows in proportion to the decision, creating a balance between confidence and momentum.
Example in practice
Imagine a team exploring whether to replace a legacy process with a new service. They run a discovery sprint, capturing user pain points, mapping demand, and testing prototypes. With three options compared on outcomes, risks, speed, and cost, they present a one-page Value Map Framework summary. Leaders can see the trade-offs clearly and agree to move to the next phase with confidence.
Making confident choices simple
A clear discovery exit test means leaders know when to pivot, stop, or proceed. This is how Clarity. helps teams make defensible, timely decisions that keep momentum without wasting effort.