The need for speed in startup design: why iteration velocity is a game-changer

Jordan Stimpson
September 4, 2023
5 min read

Hey there, SaaS and tech warriors! Let's dive into something that should be as fundamental to your strategy as coffee is to your mornings: iteration velocity in design. Kevin Van Gundy, who spent four years as COO at Vercel, boiled it down to this gem: "You'll mess up when moving fast, but the damage of moving too slow is far greater."


It's not just about speed; it's about direction

Brand identity, website, product design

These three pillars are the crux of your startup's design strategy. You want them to not only look smashing but also to align with your core objectives. Moving fast here doesn’t mean slapping a logo together and calling it a day. It's about iterating your way to success.


Why speed and quality aren’t mutually exclusive

So, the mantra here isn't just 'move fast'; it's 'move fast and smart.' How do you do that, you ask?

Streamlined Discovery

You’ve got to have a solid understanding of what works, and quick. That's why a streamlined discovery and research process is your best mate.

Vision

Knowing what quality design looks like is akin to a sixth sense. When you've got this down, you're already ahead of the game.

Industry Experience

Lean on your past experiences or, heck, even your failures. They're the best tutors, giving you a fast-pass in decision-making.

Super-Quick Design

Being able to whip up solutions at lightning speed is where the magic happens. Time saved here can be channeled into fine-tuning other aspects of your startup.

Fast Iteration

Explore, test, and refine. Rinse and repeat until you've got a product or a design that not only works but wows.


Parting Shots

Velocity in design isn't about reckless speed; it's about purpose-driven action. Get it right, and you're not just fast—you're unstoppable. So, gear up and hit that design runway like you're launching the next big thing in tech. Because, let’s face it, you probably are.

Ready to level up your startup's design game? I'm all ears. 🍻

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