Solve for X and Why
In algebra, X is used to represent the unknown. When taking on large problems, you have to be willing to out into the unknown and try unconventional and innovative approaches.
Across all CX Ventures companies, we have 10 core Values and Imperatives that we instill into our culture to act as guides in our decision making and actions. While a few of these, such as Customer Obsession and Integrity, are very much inspired by companies that we admire, most are unique and peculiar to us. As we scale out our organizations, I thought I'd begin sharing a few of these cornerstones for our team, partners and customers.
Solve for X and Why
Our first imperative is "Solve for X and Why". It is also where the "X" in CrosbyX is derived.
In algebra, X is used to represent the unknown. When taking on large problems, you have to be willing to out into the unknown and try unconventional and innovative approaches. You must also know the "why" behind solving the problem and the impact it will have. Once the Why is clear, then solving for any X is achievable.
Simply put, we must always ask ourselves and customers, "what are we solving for, and why are we solving for it?" We also subscribe to the "Five Why's" methodology, whereby when a problem occurs, you drill down to its root cause by asking "Why?" five times. Then, when a counter-measure becomes apparent, you follow it through to prevent the issue from recurring.
Additionally, we value data over opinions. As such, one should interrogate problems, and not people.
By isolating the problem set and working backwards, we avoid the syndrome of creating "Solutions looking for a Problem" and instead focus our resources on Capacity Building and Creating Sustainable Value for our customers, society and the company itself (also core values).