The purpose of this post is to define the essence of performance.  Of course, we cannot begin the discussion of performance axiomatically without its interactions with success and differentiation. For now lets assume we are considering a systems performance within the lens of success. Lets continue.

Since the dawn of time there have been approximately a duodecillian  organisms on earth. In that time, biological entities have evolved extremely consistently in spite of entropy, catastrophes, and largely differing physiologies.

The following axioms have the most data backing their significance:

Big Data Permeability

The hallmark of dominant technology companies today and the heart of statistics and probability theory in general. The idea is to grab more data. Everyone should have a database of what is working and not working, not just tech companies.

Highly Networked

Part of a powerfully connected network of specialized services, feedback, and perspectives. The structure benefits from network effects and diffusion of vertically integrated resources.

Iterative

Do many small different things fast. Measure and adapt recursively.

Specificity

Incredibly focused and constantly identifying, testing, and eliminating waste. Limited bounds.

Highly Computational

Powerful models continually churning at a cost.  In non-computer-based terms, think of computation as intelligence multiplied by hard work.

We can measure the performance of wildly differing systems based on how applicable these axioms are. Show me a company, organsism, network, or ecosystem with these bounds measured and it’s easy to determine how performant they are relatively.

In the next post we’ll dive into the true definition of success. It’s something that ChatGPT and Claude even get wrong!