---
name: solve-before-scale
description: Use when building zero-to-one products, when the solution shape is undefined, or when teams are applying growth metrics too early
---

# The Solve Before Scale Protocol

## Overview

A phased approach to product development that prioritizes solving a core problem with **qualitative signals** before attempting to scale with quantitative metrics.

**Core principle:** Prototypes > PRDs. Build to think; use prototypes to discover what to build.

## The Two Phases

```
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│  PHASE 1: SOLVE                                                 │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│  • Embrace chaos and "wide lurches" in direction                │
│  • Ignore "grownup metrics" (CTR, retention)                    │
│  • Focus on qualitative "magic moments"                         │
│  • Build prototypes to discover what to build                   │
│  • Find the core utility that users love                        │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│  PHASE 2: SCALE                                                 │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│  • Only AFTER core utility is proven                            │
│  • Operationalize and optimize                                  │
│  • Apply standard growth metrics                                │
│  • Add polish and expand scope                                  │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
```

## Key Principles

| Principle | Description |
|-----------|-------------|
| **Embrace chaos** | Early stage should feel messy |
| **Qualitative first** | Magic moments > conversion rates |
| **Prototype to think** | Build to learn, not to ship |
| **Delay metrics** | Growth metrics come in Scale phase |

## Common Mistakes

- Applying false precision (metrics) too early
- Fearing the chaos of early "solve" phase
- Scaling a product that hasn't truly solved core need

---

*Source: Aparna Chennapragada (Microsoft CPO) via Lenny's Podcast*