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Using the Product Development Waterfall diagram for…

“Using the Product Development Waterfall diagram for Customer Development activities is like using a clock to tell the temperature. They both measure something, but not the thing you wanted.” quote by Steve Blank
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“Using the Product Development Waterfall diagram for Customer Development activities is like using a clock to tell the temperature. They both measure something, but not the thing you wanted.”

Steve Blank

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Applying mismatched tools (waterfall for development) yields irrelevant results; choose methods that fit the problem.

In simple terms: Use the right tool for the job.

Key Takeaway

Select appropriate processes for each task.

Themes

methodology fit innovation

Mood

analytical pragmatic

Type

practical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • software engineering
  • market research
  • customer interviews
  • project planning

Key Concepts

systems thinking product development

Questions to Reflect On

  • What process best matches your current goal?
  • How do you assess tool suitability?
A Different Perspective

Changing tools can be costly and time‑consuming.

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