Killer
Assumptions

This technique is a stepwise process that inventories and prioritizes the MOST important assumptions. so that you have the best chance to make course corrections early — and not waste time and money.

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When would you use Killer Assumptions?

Killer Assumptions is best used after a concept has been initially built but before you conduct testing or piloting of the concept. Killer Assumptions will help to uncover pivotable assumptions as well as inform the design of prospective experiments.

Here’s where Killer Assumptions can be a difference maker:

You need to systematically identify success factors and project risks
You need to identify risks and uncertainities as part of a project or business review
You need to identify testable assumptions for a new and speculative concept

How does Killer Assumptions work?

1
Select the idea to evaluate
2
List the assumptions that must hold true for this idea be successful
3
Determine which assumptions will have the biggest impact
4
Select the high impact assumptions that have the most uncertainty
5
Prioritize the “Killer Assumptions” from most-least important

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Deliberate Innovation Killer Assumptions Tool Guide

Top Killer Assumptions Tips

Prioritize the “Killer Assumptions” from most-least important
Be expansive - don’t Judge in the First Round
Ensure everyone understands each assumption before capturing on the chart
Consider organizing by category
Facilitator should “trim” duplicate assumptions. If there is disagreement, move it forward – even if you believe it’s very similar.
When deciding if an assumption should be moved forward, if there is disagreement, move it forward – even if you believe it’s easy to learn
Teams can have multiple “KILLER” assumptions (but not every one should be a KILLER!)

More Killer Assumptions Tips & Stories

Storytelling is at the heart of our teaching and is essential for understanding new concepts. Here are some short stories and tips to continue to bring this tool to life.