July 4th, 2024

Against Innovation Tokens

The article explores the concept of "innovation tokens" in technology selection, cautioning about operational overhead issues. Emphasis is on prioritizing ease of operation over development benefits, advocating for consistent technology choices.

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Against Innovation Tokens

The article discusses the concept of "innovation tokens" in technology selection, popularized by Dan McKinley in 2015. It suggests that while the model can be a helpful heuristic, it may lead to operational overhead issues. The focus is on the importance of considering ease of operation over development when selecting technologies, as operational costs can outweigh development benefits in the long run. The article emphasizes the need for consistency in technology choices to reduce complexity and operational friction within teams. It argues against the indiscriminate rejection of innovative tools, advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes alignment and communication within the team. The piece highlights the hidden costs of deviating from consistent technology choices and encourages a thoughtful evaluation of operational implications when adopting new tools. It concludes by stressing the significance of minimizing friction at the boundaries between technologies to enhance overall system efficiency and team collaboration.

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