The voltage effect by John List
Ideas from the book
"In The Voltage Effect, List argues that for an idea to have a widespread impact, it must achieve 'high voltage'—the ability to be replicated at scale. By understanding how scaling works, List says, we can drive change in our schools, workplaces, communities, and society at large. Because a better world can only be built at scale." – Wall Street Journal
People Versus product: The chef versus the ingredients
People are difficult to scale
Determine the end goal and work backwards
Unintended spillovers: certain decisions may cause unintended spillover reactions
Each decision entails certain trade-offs.
Don't let past actions limit future decisions.
Opportunity cost, sunk cost & marginal utility.
Scale culture: A clear vision and mission can attract and retain good talent
Homer Simpson versus Spock
People assume others are more like Spock than Homer Simpson.
Spock is a fictional character from Star Trek Franchise. He is a Vulcana and served as the scientific advisor. He uses a scientific approach to thinking, is rational and considers all options.
Homer Simpson is another fictional character from the TV series 'The Simpsons. He acts on his gut instincts and loves to watch TV and eat food. He avoids thinking.
Include team diversity and early on
Power imbalance at the leadership level.
Observable and non-observable diversity
Real world versus the petri dish
What works in the lab, under ideal conditions doesn't always translate into the real world.
Case examples
Kmart and the blue light time
Salk and the polio vaccine: example of good scaling
DARE: Nancy Regans drug abuse and resistance education programe
Associated ideas
Rationality
Design and empathy
Understanding the user needs