4-Week Restriction Sprint
A systematic implementation framework for applying caloric restriction to an organization over four weeks, with clear phases, metrics, and decision points.
A systematic implementation framework for applying caloric restriction to an organization over four weeks, with clear phases, metrics, and decision points.
When to Use 4-Week Restriction Sprint
Use when implementing organizational caloric restriction - whether proactively (extending runway, building efficiency) or reactively (responding to downturn, funding pressure).
How to Apply
Week 1: Diagnostic
Run BRE, RPE, CAC Payback calculations. Audit waste sources. Set 20-30% restriction target. Communicate the 'why' to the team.
Questions to Ask
- What's your BRE (Net New ARR / Annual Burn)?
- What's your RPE (ARR / Employees)?
- Where is visible waste?
Outputs
- Baseline metrics
- Waste audit
- Target restriction level
- Team communication
Week 2: Phase 1 Cuts
Eliminate low-hanging fruit: meetings with no decision, tools with <10% adoption, features with <5% usage. Target 10-15% burn reduction.
Outputs
- Eliminated meetings list
- Cancelled subscriptions
- Deprecated features
Week 3: Measure Impact
Track shipping velocity, team morale, and burn rate. Determine if Phase 2 cuts are needed.
Questions to Ask
- Is velocity maintained?
- Is morale stable or improved?
- Are you on track for 20-30% restriction?
Week 4: Phase 2 Cuts (if needed)
If still burning inefficiently, make strategic cuts: non-core products, low-ROI channels. Recalculate metrics. Set quarterly diagnostic cadence.
Outputs
- Final metrics
- Quarterly review schedule
- Success/failure assessment