beginningfocuseda

beginningfocuseda is a term used to describe a design and project management approach that prioritizes the initial phase of a project. It emphasizes defining the problem, goals, constraints, and scope at the outset to guide subsequent decisions and reduce later rework.

The term began appearing in online discourse and educational materials for product design and software development during the late 2010s and early 2020s. It is not tied to a single author or organization but reflects a growing emphasis on early-phase clarity in agile and lean practices.

Key principles include explicit problem framing, articulation of success metrics, setting boundaries for scope, prioritizing reversible decisions, and establishing a lightweight baseline plan that can be iterated on as new information emerges.

Used in product management, UX design, research planning, and policy design to align teams and accelerate decision-making.

Proponents say it reduces rework, aligns stakeholders, and speeds delivery. Critics argue that excessive rigidity can hinder exploration and that early decisions may be incomplete without feedback.

Related ideas include first principles thinking, start with the end in mind, minimal viable product, and front-end planning.