Behavioral Strategy Playbook
TLDR: Patterns are tools that serve Behavior Market Fit, not shortcuts. We define the desired behavior from the user’s world, then use a small set of plays to make that behavior obvious, easy, and worth repeating. Patterns are organized by whether they help select the right behavior or help execute and sustain it.
Behavior Market Fit is the successful match of desired behavior and customers.
Orientation
- Behavior Market Fit: Match between the behavior you ask for and the people you serve. If the behavior is exciting, reasonable, and rewarding for the target group, adoption is likely.
- Process anchors: Goal definition → User definition → Behavioral Research (Situational Survey, Behavioral Audit, Worldview Analysis, Problem Examination) → Behavior Matching and Ranking → Behavioral Innovation if needed → Product design around the chosen behavior.
Behavior Depth Index (BDI)
A quick signal of how far a pattern can move behavior on its own.
- 0 = Compliance only or one‑time configuration
- 1 = Supports execution of an already good behavior choice
- 2 = Sustains a recurring behavior once fit exists
- 3 = Creates a new recurring behavior from scratch (rare)
Evidence Class
- A = Multiple RCTs or meta‑analyses across domains
- B = Consistent field results with mixed or limited formal evidence
- C = Early evidence or domain‑specific anecdotes
Execution & Feedback Plays
| Pattern | BDI | Evidence | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Implementation Intentions | 1 | A | Cue‑contingent actions, bridging intention to action |
| Progress Visualization | 1 | B | Sustaining effort once behavior is selected |
| Social Signal Architecture | 0–1 | B | Reducing uncertainty at decision points |
Behavior Selection Plays
| Pattern | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Behavior Matching | Identify the highest‑fit behavior to anchor product work |
| Behavior Ranking | Compare candidates with a transparent BMF rubric |
| Worldview Analysis | Model beliefs and identities that constrain behavior |
| Behavior Calendar | Place the behavior in real schedules and contexts |
| Behavioral Innovation | Invent new behaviors or contexts when none fit |
Anti‑Patterns
Tactics that are often oversold as behavior change. Use sparingly and only once BMF is validated.
| Page | Why it is limited | Use instead |
|---|---|---|
| Defaults | Sets configuration, not ongoing behavior | Behavior Matching, Context Redesign |
| Variable Rewards | Overrated except when task is already meaningful | Competence loops, Personalized rewards |
| Foot‑in‑the‑Door | Inflates shallow compliance, harms trust | Value Escalation, Proof‑of‑Benefit |
How to choose a play
1) Validate Behavior Market Fit for the user group.
2) If the behavior is a fit but execution lags, start with Implementation Intentions and Progress Visualization.
3) If uncertainty blocks decisions, add Social Signals at the true moment of doubt.
4) Avoid Anti‑Patterns until the above are exhausted.