Conflicting values
In any organization, and on a personal level, you will have multiple core values. The true test of these happens when they conflict and one needs to be prioritized over others. The same goes for goals.
Personalizing content vs. avoiding filter bubbles and echo chambers. Minimizing friction vs. maximizing security. Protecting user privacy vs. improving ad targeting.
Organizations tend to push back on making changes saying it’s against their culture. However, the underlying issue often comes from an unresolved conflict between two competing values. It’s time to clarify how to put those two together1. It will sharpen the organization's identity and simplify decision-making for everyone.
E.g. “we will improve ad targeting without compromising user privacy”, will steer the team towards federated learning and differential privacy, effectively defining which value comes first.