Ideation: Reuse vs. Reinvent
The Ideation Model answers a deceptively simple question: "Is this truly new, or did we just rename something we already have?"
The Anti-Shadow Principle
Shadow concepts kill scalability faster than bad code. Before any new build, the Lens enforces the Reuse First question:
"Can we solve this by extending what already exists?"
The Decision Framework
Reasons to Reuse
- Lower cost and infrastructure load.
- Faster delivery (extension vs creation).
- Better data consistency.
- Stronger platform governance.
Reasons to Reinvent
- The new concept is fundamentally different.
- Extending the old model introduces breaking complexity.
- Strategic positioning demands a distinct capability.
If we reinvent, we do it consciously—with justification in the Charter—not by accident.