Synthesis Quick Reference
Evidence note: Any quantitative thresholds on this page are starter heuristics unless linked to the Evidence Ledger or a primary source + date. Calibrate by domain.
The Core Finding (in one sentence)
Behavior selection determines outcomes more than execution quality.
Right behavior + mediocre execution beats wrong behavior + excellent execution.
The Behavior Fit Assessment (the three dimensions)
Before you invest in solution design, screen candidate behaviors using the Behavior Fit Assessment.
Identity Fit
Does this behavior align with how users see themselves?
- High: “This is for me.” The behavior expresses identity (creator, learner, athlete, professional).
- Low: “That’s not who I am.” The behavior conflicts with self‑image or social standing.
Capability Fit
Can users actually perform this behavior in the real world?
- High: low skill requirement; first completion is easy for the median user.
- Low: requires sustained attention, special knowledge, physical ability, or complex setup.
Context Fit
Does the environment support the behavior where it naturally occurs?
- High: the environment reliably triggers and enables repetition (tools, time, norms, infrastructure).
- Low: the environment blocks the behavior (time scarcity, stigma, interruptions, missing infrastructure).
The decision rules
- If any dimension < 6/10: you are forcing, not matching. Pivot the behavior or redesign the system to raise the limiting dimension.
- If all dimensions ≥ 6/10: select the behavior with the highest minimum score (weak‑link logic).
- Execute via the DRIVE Framework, which maps directly to the Four‑Fit Hierarchy.
The recurring patterns
- Match, don’t hack. The strongest strategies formalize and enable behaviors people already do (or already try to do).
- Context > technology. Execution quality matters after fit is established.
- Defaults are configuration, not magic. Defaults work best after behavior viability exists; they don’t create viability by themselves. See Why Nudges Fail.
Quick decision heuristic
| Signal | Green | Yellow | Red |
|---|---|---|---|
| BFA minimum score | ≥7 | 6 | <6 |
| Time to First Behavior (TTFB) | fast | moderate | slow |
| Early retention / repetition | strong | mixed | weak |
| Action | Build + verify | Diagnose limiting fit | Pivot behavior |
Next steps
- Browse the Case Library to see how behavior selection predicts success and failure.
- Use the Behavior Fit Assessment Worksheet in your next Research sprint.