Process evolution for scale

Processes that work for small teams become bottlenecks at scale. The informal chat that solved problems instantly becomes impossible when teams span multiple time zones. Documentation shifts from nice-to-have to critical infrastructure. Successful scaling requires deliberate process design.

Start by auditing your current processes. List every decision point, approval step, and communication flow. Map how features move from idea to production. Identify where work gets stuck or where multiple people do the same task. This is also an opportunity to simplify overly complex processes and empower teams to make decisions independently, so the process doesn't become too strict or cumbersome.

Replace verbal agreements with written documentation. Create templates for product specs, technical designs, and decision logs. Set up a central wiki where anyone can find process information. Establish clear ownership - who decides, who executes, who reviews. Use tools like RACI matrices to clarify team roles.^[1]