Operational definitions

I find that entrepreneurs often use very vague techy terms in their communications, like “vertically integrated software.” What does that mean?

When I run across an example like that I suggest that when communicating about your product, use operational definitions: a process or operation whose end result can be measured.

For example, “we plan to provide an open API to our application” or “our application will be based in the cloud, using Amazon, Google or Microsoft.”

Wikipedia goes much further, but I’d say my definition is simpler, and agree that yes, the procedure or process “should be repeatable by anyone or at least peers.” That’s a key component of the scientific method, of course.

An operational definition is a result of the process of operationalization and is used to define something (e.g. a variable, term, or object) in terms of a process (or set of validation tests) needed to determine its existence, duration, and quantity.^[1][2] Since the degree of operationalization can vary itself, it can result in a more or less operational definition.^[3] The procedures included in definitions should be repeatable by anyone or at least by peers.

Author: Mentorphile

Mentor, coach, and advisor to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations. General manager with significant experience in both for-profit and non-profit organizations. Focus on media and information. On founding team of four venture-backed companies. Currently Chairman of Popsleuth, Inc., maker of the Endorfyn app for keeping fans updated on new stuff from their favorite artists. View all posts by Mentorphile