# 5 step process for making things in a better way

**Date:** 2026-02-02  
**Author:** Kees C. Bakker  
**Original:** https://keestalkstech.com/notes/5-step-process-for-making-things-in-a-better-way/

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[YouTube Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhuaVsOAMFc)

This video is an extract for product managers, service designers and others people who make hardware, software or both. It might be good general life advice too!

> 1. Make your requirements less dumb
> 
> - Your requirements are definitely dumb.
> - Its particularly dangerous if a smart person gave them to you as you might not question them enough.
> 
> 2. Delete the part or process
> 
> - If you're not adding back then you're not deleting enough.
> - Don't add requirements just in case, don't hedge your bets.
> 
> 3. Simplify/Optimise
> 
> - Don't optimise if it shouldn't exist.
> 
> 4. Accelerate cycle times
> 
> - But don't go faster if you haven't worked on the other 3 things first...
> - If you're digging your grave don't dig your grave faster.
> 
> 5. Automate
> 
> - Don't reverse these 5 steps.