As a manager, I’ve often been tempted to hold out for the perfect version of a project—waiting until every detail is flawless before delivery. This mindset might feel like striving for high quality, but in reality, it can stall progress and decrease efficiency. I’ve learned that focusing on delivering Version 1—something good enough to meet immediate needs—keeps projects moving and leads to better long-term outcomes.
The Perfection Trap
The idea of Version 1 is simple: deliver now and improve later. However, it’s easy to get stuck aiming for what I call “vPerfect”—the ideal, fully polished version. In my experience, this quest for perfection can become a blocker and lead to an unruly, bloated backlog. By waiting to release until everything is just right, we lose momentum, delaying progress unnecessarily.
This pattern can apply to almost any aspect of work. For instance, when creating a new policy document, it’s easy to wait for every section to be flawless. However, if the core structure is ready, there’s no need to delay its implementation. Similarly, when writing task requirements, insisting on perfectly defined details before assigning tasks often results in lost time. A Version 1 approach ensures that teams can move forward with the work, refining along the way as more details emerge. Or we can simply add a follow-up task later.
Recognizing this pattern in myself, I’ve shifted my approach. Now, when I encounter a blocker, I ask myself a simple question: “Can I release a good enough version now?” If the answer is yes, I proceed immediately. This morning, for example, an employee asked for an enhancement in a product we’re developing. While I understood her request, I also knew she didn’t need it right away. I told her to focus on Version 1 because she already had more than enough to work with.
Recognizing Blockers and Moving Forward
A key part of this approach is the ability to quickly identify blockers. These obstacles—whether it’s a missing feature, a difficult decision, or a lack of resources—can easily derail progress. But not all blockers are critical. The challenge is to distinguish between those that can be set aside and those that genuinely need attention.
This logic also applies when delivering product features. Rather than holding back an entire release until every feature is perfectly integrated, it’s often more effective to launch with the key features in place and add the extras later. The same goes for providing status updates. There’s no need to wait until every last detail is sorted before updating stakeholders—giving them a clear picture of where things stand is often enough.
By assessing whether a blocker is urgent or something that can be addressed later, I can keep projects moving. The ability to move forward with a Version 1 mindset ensures that I deliver value quickly, rather than delaying for perfection that may not even be necessary.
The Cost of Waiting for vPerfect
In fast-paced environments, waiting for a perfect version is often more harmful than releasing a good enough one. Delays can result in missed opportunities, market changes, or even demotivated teams. In contrast, getting a Version 1 out there allows for real-time feedback and user input, making future iterations more informed and valuable.
Consider creating templates for repeated tasks. Instead of refining the layout and format to perfection before sharing them, it’s far more efficient to provide a basic template for immediate use. Over time, based on feedback, the template can be improved. This is better than letting an essential tool sit unused because it’s not “perfect” yet.
For example, when developing software, waiting for every bug to be fixed or every feature to be perfect might seem wise, but it often delays valuable feedback. Users are the best source of insight, and their experiences can shape the direction of the next version. Releasing a Version 1 not only gets the product in their hands sooner, but it also allows for faster improvements based on their input.
The Power of Iteration
Version 1 is just the beginning. It opens the door to iteration, which is far more powerful than striving for perfection upfront. Iteration is based on real-world use and feedback, allowing for continuous improvement. Many successful products started with a simple Version 1 and grew through regular updates and refinements.
This philosophy applies not only to products but also to managing teams. I’ve found that when I encourage my team to focus on Version 1—whether they’re preparing task outlines, refining contract templates, or creating internal guides—it boosts productivity and fosters a culture of action. When faced with a blocker, I often ask my team, “What’s holding you up?” If the issue isn’t critical, I urge them to move forward with what they have.
Conclusion
Waiting for perfection can slow progress and waste valuable time. By focusing on Version 1—delivering something good enough to meet immediate needs—I’ve been able to keep projects moving, unblock myself and my team, and create a culture of action. Whether it’s delivering policy documents, task requirements, product features, or status updates, Version 1 is not the final product; it’s the first step in a process of continuous improvement, where real-world feedback drives future success.
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