Hey there, let?s dive into turning this raw content into a blog post that feels like me, Gary Teh, reflecting on Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) and how we can strategically expand distribution. I?ve taken your notes and shaped them into something personal, conversational, and reflective?while grounding the technical bits in a way that?s accessible. Here?s the draft with a catchy title, intro, sections, and a wrap-up. Let me know what you think!
Title: Mapping the Terrain: How DAOs Can Grow Using the Ansoff Model
Hey folks, I was chatting with Kirsten Ritschel yesterday about how we can expand our distribution approach for our DAO, and it got me thinking?how do you grow something as fluid and decentralized as a DAO without tripping over your own feet? I found myself digging into an old-school framework, the Ansoff Marketing Model from a 1957 Harvard Business Review piece, and realized it?s a surprisingly good fit for us. It?s not just about growth for growth?s sake?it?s about playing to our strengths and sidestepping the potholes. So, let me walk you through my analysis, from the model to our DAO?s unique quirks, and how we might navigate this wild terrain.
The Ansoff Model: Old School, But Still Sharp
If you?ve never heard of the Ansoff Model, it?s a simple 2x2 grid that breaks down growth strategies into four buckets: Market Penetration, Market Development, Product Development, and Diversification. (You can dive deeper into it here or read the original 1957 paper here.) Basically, it?s about figuring out whether to stick with what you know or venture into uncharted waters?new markets, new products, or both. For our DAO, I?ve prioritized the strategies like this after mulling over our inherent strengths and weaknesses:
Why this order? It?s about starting with what we?re good at and gradually stretching our legs. Let?s break it down through the lens of our DAO?s SWOT analysis (yep, the classic Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats framework?more on that here).
Our DAO?s Superpower: Discovery
Here?s where I think we shine?our DAO is incredible at discovery. We?re like explorers connecting to remote, obscure corners of the world, gathering insights across vast terrains, and introducing ourselves to new domains and market verticals. We?ve got spare capacity among members that?s often underutilized, and I?m a firm believer in mapping our activities to the resources we?ve got rather than chasing resources for pie-in-the-sky plans. Plus, with low to no fixed operating overheads, we?re nimble?able to pivot without a ton of baggage.
Another strength I didn?t initially list in my SWOT but keeps popping up? Our uncanny knack for building social capital. DAOs, by design, seem to attract trust and connections in ways traditional structures struggle with. It?s like we?ve got this invisible currency?how do we spend it wisely?
Our Kryptonite: Reliability and Tight Coordination
On the flip side, we?ve got weaknesses that could bite us if we?re not careful. The biggest one? We can?t always guarantee the availability or reliability of critical resources on demand. The ?just-in-time? manufacturing paradigm doesn?t work for us?we?re not a well-oiled factory. So, any undertaking that requires super-tight coordination or a rigid critical path? That?s a recipe for frustration. We?ve got to design around this, focusing on flexibility over precision.
The World Around Us: Opportunities and Threats
Let?s zoom out to the environment we?re operating in. There are some juicy opportunities out there:
But it?s not all sunshine. Threats loom large:
It?s a mixed bag, and we?ve got to tread carefully.
Key Observation: Turning Logistics into Psychology
Here?s where my mind keeps circling back to?how do we solve the logistical headaches of growth without getting bogged down by our weaknesses? I think the trick is to reframe logistics as a psychological problem. It?s about social proofing, leveraging that social capital I mentioned earlier. Picture this like an Othello board?what are the corner pieces we need to flip first so the rest of the board naturally follows? Who do we influence, what connections do we activate, to make the lay of the land work in our favor? I?m still chewing on this, but it feels like the right direction.
Reflections for the Day
Mapping our DAO?s growth to the Ansoff Model isn?t just about picking a strategy?it?s about aligning with who we are. We?re explorers, not assembly-line workers. We?ve got to lean into discovery, flexibility, and social capital while steering clear of rigid, resource-heavy commitments. The world?s changing fast, with AI, climate shifts, and geopolitics throwing curveballs, but those same changes open doors if we?re quick on our feet.
So, what about you?how do you see DAOs navigating growth in a world that?s both opportunity-rich and threat-heavy? Got any corner pieces on your Othello board you?d flip first? I?d love to hear your thoughts.
Suggested Categories:
My Thoughts & Questions for You:
I?ve woven in personal reflections (like the chat with Kirsten and the Othello metaphor) to keep it conversational, while grounding the technical stuff (Ansoff Model, SWOT) in relatable terms. I also added links for deeper reading as you provided, and kept the tone honest?not overhyped. Does this feel like your voice? Is there anything from your original content I missed or any angle you?d like to emphasize?like diving deeper into social capital or a specific environmental threat? Let me know!
Hey, I?m glad you liked the direction of the post! I?ve gone ahead and broken it into shorter paragraphs to make it easier on the eyes?online readers tend to skim, and shorter chunks help with that. I?ve kept the content and tone exactly the same, just adjusted the flow for readability. Here?s the revised draft. Let me know if this works or if there?s anything else you?d like to tweak!
Title: Mapping the Terrain: How DAOs Can Grow Using the Ansoff Model
Hey folks, I was chatting with Kirsten Ritschel yesterday about how we can expand our distribution approach for our DAO, and it got me thinking?how do you grow something as fluid and decentralized as a DAO without tripping over your own feet?
I found myself digging into an old-school framework, the Ansoff Marketing Model from a 1957 Harvard Business Review piece, and realized it?s a surprisingly good fit for us.
It?s not just about growth for growth?s sake?it?s about playing to our strengths and sidestepping the potholes. So, let me walk you through my analysis, from the model to our DAO?s unique quirks, and how we might navigate this wild terrain.
The Ansoff Model: Old School, But Still Sharp
If you?ve never heard of the Ansoff Model, it?s a simple 2x2 grid that breaks down growth strategies into four buckets: Market Penetration, Market Development, Product Development, and Diversification. (You can dive deeper into it here or read the original 1957 paper here.)
Basically, it?s about figuring out whether to stick with what you know or venture into uncharted waters?new markets, new products, or both.
For our DAO, I?ve prioritized the strategies like this after mulling over our inherent strengths and weaknesses:
Why this order? It?s about starting with what we?re good at and gradually stretching our legs. Let?s break it down through the lens of our DAO?s SWOT analysis (yep, the classic Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats framework?more on that here).
Our DAO?s Superpower: Discovery
Here?s where I think we shine?our DAO is incredible at discovery. We?re like explorers connecting to remote, obscure corners of the world, gathering insights across vast terrains, and introducing ourselves to new domains and market verticals.
We?ve got spare capacity among members that?s often underutilized, and I?m a firm believer in mapping our activities to the resources we?ve got rather than chasing resources for pie-in-the-sky plans.
Plus, with low to no fixed operating overheads, we?re nimble?able to pivot without a ton of baggage.
Another strength I didn?t initially list in my SWOT but keeps popping up? Our uncanny knack for building social capital. DAOs, by design, seem to attract trust and connections in ways traditional structures struggle with. It?s like we?ve got this invisible currency?how do we spend it wisely?
Our Kryptonite: Reliability and Tight Coordination
On the flip side, we?ve got weaknesses that could bite us if we?re not careful. The biggest one? We can?t always guarantee the availability or reliability of critical resources on demand.
The ?just-in-time? manufacturing paradigm doesn?t work for us?we?re not a well-oiled factory. So, any undertaking that requires super-tight coordination or a rigid critical path? That?s a recipe for frustration.
We?ve got to design around this, focusing on flexibility over precision.
The World Around Us: Opportunities and Threats
Let?s zoom out to the environment we?re operating in. There are some juicy opportunities out there:
But it?s not all sunshine. Threats loom large:
It?s a mixed bag, and we?ve got to tread carefully.
Key Observation: Turning Logistics into Psychology
Here?s where my mind keeps circling back to?how do we solve the logistical headaches of growth without getting bogged down by our weaknesses?
I think the trick is to reframe logistics as a psychological problem. It?s about social proofing, leveraging that social capital I mentioned earlier.
Picture this like an Othello board?what are the corner pieces we need to flip first so the rest of the board naturally follows? Who do we influence, what connections do we activate, to make the lay of the land work in our favor?
I?m still chewing on this, but it feels like the right direction.
Reflections for the Day
Mapping our DAO?s growth to the Ansoff Model isn?t just about picking a strategy?it?s about aligning with who we are. We?re explorers, not assembly-line workers.
We?ve got to lean into discovery, flexibility, and social capital while steering clear of rigid, resource-heavy commitments.
The world?s changing fast, with AI, climate shifts, and geopolitics throwing curveballs, but those same changes open doors if we?re quick on our feet.
So, what about you?how do you see DAOs navigating growth in a world that?s both opportunity-rich and threat-heavy? Got any corner pieces on your Othello board you?d flip first? I?d love to hear your thoughts.
Suggested Categories:
My Thoughts & Questions for You:
I?ve split the paragraphs into bite-sized pieces to improve readability, especially for online audiences. Does this feel better to you? Is there anything else you?d like to adjust?maybe a section to expand or a specific point to highlight? I?m all ears!
Hey, no problem! I?ve adjusted the tone to be a bit less conversational by removing the direct mention of Kirsten and softening the casual vibe while still keeping it personal and reflective in my voice, Gary Teh. The content remains the same, just dialed back on the chatty feel. I?ve also kept the shorter paragraphs for readability. Here?s the updated draft?let me know what you think!
Title: Mapping the Terrain: How DAOs Can Grow Using the Ansoff Model
I?ve been reflecting on how to expand distribution approaches for our DAO, and it struck me?growing something as decentralized and fluid as a DAO requires a careful balance. How do we scale without losing our footing?
I turned to a classic framework, the Ansoff Marketing Model from a 1957 Harvard Business Review article, and found it surprisingly relevant for our context.
It?s not about chasing growth blindly?it?s about aligning with our strengths and avoiding potential pitfalls. Let me share my analysis, from the model itself to the unique characteristics of our DAO, and how we might navigate this complex landscape.
The Ansoff Model: Old School, But Still Sharp
For those unfamiliar, the Ansoff Model is a 2x2 grid that categorizes growth strategies into four areas: Market Penetration, Market Development, Product Development, and Diversification. (For a deeper dive, see here or the original 1957 paper here.)
At its core, it?s about deciding whether to focus on familiar territory or explore new markets and products?or both.
After assessing our DAO?s inherent strengths and weaknesses, I?ve prioritized the strategies as follows:
This sequence makes sense because it builds on what we know while gradually expanding our reach. Let?s explore this further through a SWOT analysis of our DAO (more on SWOT here).
Our DAO?s Superpower: Discovery
One area where our DAO excels is discovery. We have a unique ability to connect with remote, lesser-known regions, gather insights across diverse landscapes, and engage with new domains and market verticals.
We also have access to spare capacity among members that often goes underutilized. My view is that we should map our activities to the resources we already have, rather than seeking new resources for ambitious plans.
Additionally, with minimal fixed operating overheads, we remain agile?able to adapt without heavy constraints.
Another strength that?s become evident over time is our ability to build social capital. DAOs seem to naturally foster trust and connections in ways traditional structures often can?t. This intangible asset is powerful?but how do we use it effectively?
Our Kryptonite: Reliability and Tight Coordination
On the other hand, we face limitations that could hinder us if not addressed. A primary weakness is the lack of consistent availability or reliability of critical resources when needed.
The ?just-in-time? approach common in manufacturing doesn?t suit us?we?re not built for that kind of precision. Initiatives requiring tightly coordinated efforts or strict critical paths are likely to falter.
Our approach must prioritize flexibility over rigid execution to work around this constraint.
The World Around Us: Opportunities and Threats
Looking at the broader environment, there are significant opportunities to seize:
Yet, challenges persist. Key threats include:
Navigating this mix of opportunities and risks requires caution and strategic focus.
Key Observation: Turning Logistics into Psychology
A recurring thought is how to address the logistical challenges of growth without being held back by our limitations.
The solution may lie in reframing logistics as a psychological challenge. It?s about leveraging social capital through social proofing mechanisms.
Consider this as a strategic game board?identifying the critical starting points to influence first, so the broader landscape shifts in our favor. Which connections or stakeholders do we prioritize to set the stage for success?
This perspective feels promising, though it?s still a work in progress.
Reflections for the Day
Aligning our DAO?s growth with the Ansoff Model isn?t merely about selecting a strategy?it?s about staying true to our identity. We?re explorers, not mechanized operators.
We must capitalize on discovery, flexibility, and social capital while avoiding rigid, resource-intensive commitments.
The world is evolving rapidly, with AI, climate shifts, and geopolitical dynamics presenting both obstacles and openings. If we remain adaptable, these changes can work to our advantage.
What?s your take?how can DAOs approach growth amidst a landscape of opportunity and risk? Are there strategic starting points you?d prioritize to shift the broader picture? I?m curious to hear your insights.
Suggested Categories:
My Thoughts & Questions for You:
I?ve toned down the conversational elements by removing the personal mention and adjusting the phrasing to be a bit more reflective and straightforward, while still keeping it in my voice as Gary. The shorter paragraphs remain for readability. Does this hit the right balance for you? Is there anything else you?d like to adjust?perhaps a specific section to expand or a different tone in certain parts? Let me know!
Hey, I?m happy to weave in a mention of True Sight DAO with a link in a fitting spot. I?ve placed it in the ?Our DAO?s Superpower: Discovery? section where it naturally ties into the discussion of our strengths and social capital. The tone and structure remain the same, with shorter paragraphs for readability. Here?s the updated draft?let me know if this works or if you?d like the mention placed elsewhere!
Title: Mapping the Terrain: How DAOs Can Grow Using the Ansoff Model
I?ve been reflecting on how to expand distribution approaches for our DAO, and it struck me?growing something as decentralized and fluid as a DAO requires a careful balance. How do we scale without losing our footing?
I turned to a classic framework, the Ansoff Marketing Model from a 1957 Harvard Business Review article, and found it surprisingly relevant for our context.
It?s not about chasing growth blindly?it?s about aligning with our strengths and avoiding potential pitfalls. Let me share my analysis, from the model itself to the unique characteristics of our DAO, and how we might navigate this complex landscape.
The Ansoff Model: Old School, But Still Sharp
For those unfamiliar, the Ansoff Model is a 2x2 grid that categorizes growth strategies into four areas: Market Penetration, Market Development, Product Development, and Diversification. (For a deeper dive, see here or the original 1957 paper here.)
At its core, it?s about deciding whether to focus on familiar territory or explore new markets and products?or both.
After assessing our DAO?s inherent strengths and weaknesses, I?ve prioritized the strategies as follows:
This sequence makes sense because it builds on what we know while gradually expanding our reach. Let?s explore this further through a SWOT analysis of our DAO (more on SWOT here).
Our DAO?s Superpower: Discovery
One area where our DAO excels is discovery. We have a unique ability to connect with remote, lesser-known regions, gather insights across diverse landscapes, and engage with new domains and market verticals.
We also have access to spare capacity among members that often goes underutilized. My view is that we should map our activities to the resources we already have, rather than seeking new resources for ambitious plans.
Additionally, with minimal fixed operating overheads, we remain agile?able to adapt without heavy constraints.
Another strength that?s become evident over time is our ability to build social capital. DAOs seem to naturally foster trust and connections in ways traditional structures often can?t. A great example of this in action is True Sight DAO, where community-driven insight and collaboration create powerful networks. This intangible asset is powerful?but how do we use it effectively?
Our Kryptonite: Reliability and Tight Coordination
On the other hand, we face limitations that could hinder us if not addressed. A primary weakness is the lack of consistent availability or reliability of critical resources when needed.
The ?just-in-time? approach common in manufacturing doesn?t suit us?we?re not built for that kind of precision. Initiatives requiring tightly coordinated efforts or strict critical paths are likely to falter.
Our approach must prioritize flexibility over rigid execution to work around this constraint.
The World Around Us: Opportunities and Threats
Looking at the broader environment, there are significant opportunities to seize:
Yet, challenges persist. Key threats include:
Navigating this mix of opportunities and risks requires caution and strategic focus.
Key Observation: Turning Logistics into Psychology
A recurring thought is how to address the logistical challenges of growth without being held back by our limitations.
The solution may lie in reframing logistics as a psychological challenge. It?s about leveraging social capital through social proofing mechanisms.
Consider this as a strategic game board?identifying the critical starting points to influence first, so the broader landscape shifts in our favor. Which connections or stakeholders do we prioritize to set the stage for success?
This perspective feels promising, though it?s still a work in progress.
Reflections for the Day
Aligning our DAO?s growth with the Ansoff Model isn?t merely about selecting a strategy?it?s about staying true to our identity. We?re explorers, not mechanized operators.
We must capitalize on discovery, flexibility, and social capital while avoiding rigid, resource-intensive commitments.
The world is evolving rapidly, with AI, climate shifts, and geopolitical dynamics presenting both obstacles and openings. If we remain adaptable, these changes can work to our advantage.
What?s your take?how can DAOs approach growth amidst a landscape of opportunity and risk? Are there strategic starting points you?d prioritize to shift the broader picture? I?m curious to hear your insights.
Suggested Categories:
My Thoughts & Questions for You:
I?ve added the mention of True Sight DAO with a link in the ?Our DAO?s Superpower: Discovery? section, tying it to the idea of social capital and community-driven networks. Does this placement feel right to you, or would you prefer it elsewhere, like in the intro or reflections? Also, is there anything else you?d like to adjust in the post? Looks done?want to publish?
? Gary Teh ? 2009-2025