The Approach
Build something real. Show people. Get feedback. Improve. Repeat until it's production-ready.
Read this when starting a new project or explaining Catalyst methodology to stakeholders. For delivery leads, developers, and anyone curious about proof-led delivery.
The Problem We're Solving
You can build fast with AI, but fast doesn't mean aligned. Projects still go sideways because stakeholders don't see the real thing until it's too late, decisions get buried in chat threads, and rough prototypes accidentally ship as the final product.
The hard part isn't building — it's keeping everyone on the same page while you move quickly. Catalyst fixes this.
Three Principles
The beliefs that keep projects aligned and moving forward:
Show, don't tell
Put working software in front of people early. Let them react to reality, not slide decks.
Write it down
Capture decisions so they stick. Three months later, you'll still know why you built it this way.
Grow into production
Start rough, improve deliberately. Your prototype becomes the product — properly hardened.
The Delivery Loop
Every Catalyst project follows this basic rhythm:
Get aligned on what you're building
Use the project prompts to capture the vision, technical approach, and voice. Just enough to stay on track — not a 50-page spec.
Build something people can use
Ship working software that stakeholders can see and click. Pick the fastest path that proves the idea works.
Show it and get feedback
Put it in front of real people. Watch what they do. Ask questions. Write down what you learn.
Decide what's next
Stop (you learned what you needed), refine (another cycle), or advance (move toward production).
Harden as you advance
Early versions can be rough. Production can't. Each stage advance adds the quality needed for that level.
Two Ways to Start
Pick the path that fits your situation. Both lead to the same place.
Proof-first
When you know what to build
The problem is clear. Jump straight into building and let the working software guide the conversation.
- →Use the starter prompt to brief your AI
- →Build a focused proof in hours or days
- →Show it to stakeholders and capture feedback
- →Decide together: stop, refine, or advance
Best for: Clear problems, tight timelines, technical validation
Intent-first
When you need alignment first
Stakeholders need to agree before you build. Start with lightweight docs that capture what 'good' looks like.
- →Run Vision, Architecture, and Voice prompts
- →Draft a focused PRD for the first sprint
- →Get stakeholder sign-off on success criteria
- →Move into build with clear expectations
Best for: Multiple stakeholders, unclear scope, high-stakes decisions
Next Steps
Ready to dive in? Pick your path: