Tensions
Tensions represent gaps between the current state and a desired future state. They are the driving force behind market evolution and exchange.
Structure
A tension captures:
- Name — a short description of the gap
- Current context — what the situation looks like today
- Potential future — what could be achieved
- Score — urgency/importance rating from 1 to 10
- Agent — the entity experiencing the tension
- Lead user — the person responsible for addressing it
Purpose
Tensions help you identify and prioritize market opportunities. They can be linked to exchanges, connecting the why (tension) to the what (exchange).
Examples
| Tension | Score | Current Context | Potential Future |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slow onboarding cycle | 8 | 6+ weeks to go live | Automated onboarding in 1 week |
| Manual invoice reconciliation | 7 | 20 hours/week manual matching | Automated with 99% accuracy |
| Data silos across teams | 9 | Separate tools, no integration | Unified platform with cross-team visibility |