Founder Edition

1. We can name the customer problem we solve and show evidence it is urgent.

2. Paying customers keep using the product without us chasing them.

3. We know why we win and why we lose.

4. We say no to features that do not serve our core customer.

5. Customer feedback reaches the product team every week.

6. We ship on a predictable rhythm.

7. We have one sales motion that works and can repeat it.

8. Someone other than the founder can close deals.

9. We know what it costs to win a customer and how long it takes to earn it back.

10. Every key function has an owner, even if part-time.

11. The founders agree on roles, decisions and what happens if one leaves.

12. We have hired the leaders we need for the next 18 months, or have a plan to.

13. We know our runway to the month and update it monthly.

14. We know the milestones that unlock the next round.

15. Our financials would hold up to investor diligence today.

16. We set goals every quarter and review them every week.

17. Investors and the board hear bad news from us first.

18. The founder spends most of the week on work only the founder can do.