Should Andela prioritize expanding our global talent pool or deepening expertise in existing markets?

Introduction

The trade-off we're examining today is whether Andela should prioritize expanding our global talent pool or deepening expertise in existing markets. This decision is crucial for Andela's growth strategy and market positioning. I'll analyze this trade-off by considering our business objectives, user impact, technical feasibility, and resource allocation.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Business Context: I'm thinking our current revenue model might influence this decision. Could you share how our revenue is currently split between existing markets and new regions?

Why it matters: Helps understand the financial implications of expansion vs. deepening Expected answer: 70% from existing markets, 30% from newer regions Impact on approach: Higher existing market revenue would lean towards deepening expertise

• User Impact: Based on our client feedback, I'm assuming there's a demand for specialized skills. Can you confirm if clients are requesting more diverse talent or deeper expertise in specific areas?

Why it matters: Aligns our strategy with client needs Expected answer: Mix of both, with a slight preference for deeper expertise Impact on approach: Would influence the balance between expansion and specialization

• Technical Feasibility: Considering our platform infrastructure, I'm curious about our capacity to onboard talent from new regions. What's our current technical readiness for global expansion?

Why it matters: Determines the ease and cost of expansion Expected answer: Platform is scalable but may require localization efforts Impact on approach: High readiness would favor expansion, low readiness would lean towards deepening expertise

• Resource Allocation: Given our current team structure, I'm wondering about our capacity to manage expansion vs. deepening expertise. How are our teams currently allocated between these two areas?

Why it matters: Influences the feasibility of each option Expected answer: 60% focused on existing markets, 40% on expansion Impact on approach: Would help determine if reallocation is necessary for either option

• Timeline Considerations: Thinking about our strategic roadmap, I'm curious about any upcoming milestones that might influence this decision. Are there any short-term goals or partnerships that we need to factor in?

Why it matters: Helps prioritize short-term vs. long-term strategy Expected answer: Potential partnership in a new region within 6 months Impact on approach: Would influence the urgency of expansion vs. deepening expertise