In the volatile world of cryptocurrency and traditional markets, Tom Peters' advice to "Underpromise and Overdeliver" takes on new significance, offering valuable insights for both crypto projects and investors.
Is it valued properly?
The Balancing Act of Expectations
In industries where hype often outpaces reality, the temptation to overpromise is strong. However, this approach can backfire spectacularly when expectations aren't met, leading to loss of investor confidence and market value.
Real-World Applications
Apple's Product Launches
Apple has mastered the art of underpromising and overdelivering. The company typically keeps new product features under wraps, creating speculation but managing expectations. When they reveal products with capabilities exceeding rumors, it often leads to positive market reactions and increased customer satisfaction.
Amazon's Delivery Promises
Amazon consistently promises delivery dates that are conservative estimates. When packages arrive earlier than expected, it enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty, contributing to Amazon's dominant market position.
Solana's Network Upgrades
In the crypto space, Solana's approach to network upgrades provides an interesting case study. After facing criticism for network outages, Solana's team has been more conservative in promising improvements. Their recent upgrades, like the introduction of QUIC and stake-weighted QoS, have exceeded community expectations, helping to rebuild trust and support SOL's price recovery.
Practical Strategies for Crypto Projects
Crypto projects can benefit from this principle by setting realistic roadmaps, communicating transparently about challenges, and occasionally surprising the community with unexpected progress. Focusing on fundamentals and consistently delivering can set a project apart in a market driven by speculation.
For Investors
Investors should be wary of projects making extravagant promises without a track record. Looking for teams that consistently meet or exceed their stated goals often leads to better long-term investments. Evaluating how a project handles setbacks and communicates with its community can be as important as its technical achievements.
The Subjective Nature of Value
It's crucial to recognize that in both crypto and traditional markets, valuation is often highly subjective and can be influenced by factors beyond technical merit or financial performance. Political influences, strategic partnerships, and community perception can dramatically affect a project's or company's perceived value.
While "Underpromise, Overdeliver" remains sound advice, its application requires nuance, especially in fast-moving markets. Projects and companies must balance the need for attention with the importance of building long-term trust and value. For investors, understanding this dynamic can lead to more informed decisions and potentially better long-term outcomes.
In an industry where tomorrow's reality often looks different from today's promises, those who consistently deliver more than they promise may ultimately be the ones who thrive. This principle, when applied thoughtfully, can be a powerful tool for building sustainable value in both the crypto world and traditional markets.