CRISP Framework Overview

Unfortunately, we were not able to schedule a session. However, I wanted to share the core concepts I typically cover with startups I mentor.

Keep in mind that poor people decisions can endanger your startup and dilute your focus during a critical stage in your organization’s journey.

If you’d like to discuss how these apply to your specific situation, feel free to email me to schedule an additional session, even after the current project concludes. I am always happy to help out early stage organizations free of charge.

Culture: Lead by Example

Your behavior shapes company culture more than any values statement. If you want ownership, delegate. If you want transparency, share information openly. Your team watches everything you do.

Recruitment: Reduce Guesswork

Early hires make or break startups. Use structured interviews with multiple panel members. Test critical skills in writing before offering. Bring in external experts for roles outside your expertise. Every hire shapes your culture and sets expectations.

Immunity: Build Resilience Now

What happens if your lead developer quits tomorrow? Create a risk matrix identifying your highest-impact threats. Build redundancy into critical roles. Document processes for easier knowledge transfer. Prepare before crisis hits.

Systems: Automate Early

The right HR system delays the need for a full-time HR hire, saving significant costs. Good systems automate routine tasks, ensure compliance, and generate data for decisions. Implement systems before you desperately need them—when individuals drop the ball, systems keep things running.

Performance: Measure What Matters

Set SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timebound. Compare performance against clear targets. What gets measured gets done—but only if you’re measuring the right things.

Next Steps

Pick one area causing the most pain and start there. Building these foundations while you’re small is far easier than retrofitting them later.

An HR professional is a luxury item that doesn’t generate new sales or improve the product. By implementing these core people concepts successfully, you can delay the need for hiring a dedicated HR staff member significantly, saving you valuable resources.

If you would like to explore these or other issues in more detail in the future, send me an email: