6-Pager

A 6-Pager is a comprehensive document that encapsulates a complete argument or proposal for a new product or feature within six pages. It is used to present detailed information on a topic to facilitate informed decision-making in a concise format.

Purpose

The purpose of a 6-Pager is to allow decision-makers to dive deeply into a subject without masking the details behind PowerPoint and other lossy communication mediums. This approach promotes clarity, encourages detailed preparation by the author, and ensures that all participants in the decision-making process are well-informed.

Format

• Introduction (Page 1):

  • Briefly introduce the topic and the purpose of the memo.
  • Set the context and frame the problem or opportunity you're addressing.

• Goals (Page 1):

  • Clearly define the specific goals you aim to achieve.
  • These should be measurable and time-bound.

• Tenets (Page 1-2):

  • Outline the core principles or assumptions guiding your approach.
  • These tenets should be relevant to the specific topic and provide a foundation for your arguments.

• State of the Business (Page 2-3):

  • Describe the current situation or background relevant to the topic.
  • Use data, metrics, and customer insights to paint a clear picture.

• Lessons Learned (Page 3-4):

  • Discuss past experiences and what has been learned from previous successes or failures related to the topic.
  • This demonstrates a data-driven approach and grounds your strategy in past experiences.

• Strategic Priorities (Page 4-5):

  • This is the heart of your memo. Clearly outline your proposed solution or course of action.
  • Explain how your strategy will achieve the stated goals.
  • Use visuals like charts or diagrams to enhance clarity.

• Appendix (Page 6):

  • Include any additional supporting information that doesn't fit in the main body.
  • This could be raw data, detailed calculations, or supplementary materials.

Anti-patterns

• Skipping Analysis: Not providing enough analysis or data to support conclusions, making it a baseless assertion.
• Ignoring Alternatives: Failing to consider or document alternative options and the reasoning behind their exclusion.
• Underestimating Audience: Assuming too much prior knowledge on the part of the readers, which can lead to misunderstandings.