Downstream Effects
The Cost of Strategic Misalignment
Activation
Wrong Aha Moment
Optimizing for engagement steps that don't correlate with long-term retention for your product type.
Outcome
Flat conversion despite UI polish
GTM
Default Motion
Running a PLG motion on a complex enterprise product, or SLG on a simple individual utility.
Outcome
High CAC & low trial throughput
Pricing
Model Friction
Using a pricing model (e.g. seats) that discourages the primary value delivery behavior.
Outcome
Sticky expansion & high discounts