Free practical resource

Before You Build Checklist

Ten decisions to clarify before spending money on software, developers, AI tools, vendors, or a dev house.

Printable PDF · 3 pages · 10 decisions

What it helps clarify

Four areas behind the ten decisions.

Problem and evidence

Confirm the need is important now and supported by repeated signs from customers or the operation.

First version

Clarify the result, what belongs in the first version, what can wait, and what can stay manual.

Ownership and operation

Know who will use, own, and support the product, including how it will operate after launch.

Build path and risk

Compare the main build paths and identify the decision most likely to create cost, delay, or rework.

How to use it

Check what is clear. Leave the rest open.

You do not need every box checked. The empty boxes can help you see where the next discussion should begin.

Check what feels clear

Read each statement and check the ones that feel clear and supported today.

Leave open decisions visible

Leave a box empty when the decision still needs discussion, evidence, or comparison.

Use the empty boxes

They may show where more clarity is needed before you commit money or build effort.

When you need a deeper review

Turn the open questions into a practical direction.

The Before You Build Audit applies product and operations judgment to your actual product, workflow, business stage, team, risks, costs, and build options.

Explore the Audit