Interactive graph
Reversibility
Table of Contents
Prefer choices you can undo - irreversible harm needs a higher bar.
Key Concept
- Concrete undo path when the choice is a deploy or release.
- Level 1: Before you push a big change live, know how you would undo it - like keeping a spare key before you lock the door.
- Level 2: Before you push a big change live, know exactly how you would undo it if something breaks - like keeping a spare key before you lock the door.
- Level 3: Concrete undo path before deploy - rollback is design, not panic invention.
- Level 4: Because irreversible choices compound regret, ship only when the path back is spelled out and tested.
- Level 5: Concrete undo path when the choice is a deploy or release - if you cannot explain the path back, you are not ready to ship.
- Staged Rollout names small blast radius makes undo cheap.
Examples
- I took the longer route with an exit every mile before trying the new shortcut through construction.
- Try the new play in scrimmage before running it in the championship - reversible rehearsal, higher bar for the irreversible call.
Note Relationships
| Relationship | Wikilink | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| contradicts | Finish Strong | when the opposite frame fits better |
| extends | Decision Quality | Undo path is part of a good decision, not an afterthought |
| extends | Life Before Achievement | Irreversible bets should not outrank people |
| extends | Rollback Principle | Concrete undo path when the choice is a deploy or release |
| extends | Staged Rollout | Small blast radius makes undo cheap |
