How would you build the case for a multi-year product investment that won't show ROI for 18 months?
Model answer
Model answerLong-horizon investments require a different kind of storytelling — not ROI in month 6, but a compelling theory of the future and why we're uniquely positioned to win it. I'd frame it in three parts: the bet, the moat, and the cost of inaction. I'd also propose milestones that give leadership off-ramps — decision points where we can continue, pivot, or stop.
Framework · Strategic Investment
- BThe bet
What do you believe about the future that others don't? Make it explicit - MThe moat
How does this investment make you harder to compete with over time? - ICost of inaction
What do you lose by waiting? Urgency must be real, not manufactured - OOff-ramps
Define decision points where leadership can review, pivot, or stop
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