6 weeks: why it’s the Goldilocks of product timeframes

The text discusses the importance of finding the optimal timeframe for product development and planning. The authors reflect on their own experience and research, concluding that a 6-week cycle is the "Goldilocks" timeframe - not too short, not too long, but just right. This cycle provides a balance between making commitments and giving teams enough flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances. The authors argue that longer timeframes, such as 6 months, can lead to negative consequences like decreased team motivation, lack of credibility for R&D, and straitjacket-like planning constraints. In contrast, the 6-week cycle allows teams to focus on execution, prioritize goals, and make meaningful commitments without feeling too constrained. The authors propose a framework that includes goals, not plans, accountability, and flexibility within the 6-week cycle, which they believe strikes the right balance for building good software.