Should Lambda School prioritize expanding course offerings or improving existing curriculum quality?

Introduction

The key trade-off for Lambda School is whether to prioritize expanding course offerings or improving existing curriculum quality. This decision impacts student outcomes, revenue growth, and market positioning. I'll analyze this trade-off by examining the current product, stakeholder impacts, key metrics, and potential experiments to inform a strategic recommendation.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Business Context: I'm thinking Lambda School's primary revenue comes from Income Share Agreements (ISAs) with students. Could you confirm if this is still the case, or if there are other significant revenue streams?

Why it matters: Impacts how we evaluate the trade-off's financial implications Expected answer: ISAs are still primary, with some upfront tuition options Impact on approach: Would focus on metrics tied to student employment outcomes

• User Impact: Based on current trends, I'm assuming most Lambda School students are career-switchers. Is this accurate, or has the demographic shifted?

Why it matters: Influences curriculum design and expansion strategy Expected answer: Primarily career-switchers, with some recent graduates Impact on approach: Would tailor recommendations to adult learner needs

• Technical Feasibility: I'm thinking Lambda's current tech stack might limit rapid course expansion. Can you share any major technical constraints we should consider?

Why it matters: Affects the feasibility and timeline of expanding course offerings Expected answer: Some limitations in scaling live instruction and project grading Impact on approach: Would factor in technical debt and infrastructure needs

• Resource Allocation: Given the trade-off, I'm assuming there are limited resources to pursue both options fully. What's our current split between curriculum development and new course creation?

Why it matters: Helps understand current priorities and potential for reallocation Expected answer: 70% on existing curriculum, 30% on new course development Impact on approach: Would inform recommendations on resource shifting

• Timeline Pressure: I'm thinking there might be market pressures to expand quickly. Is there a specific timeline or competitive threat driving this decision?

Why it matters: Influences the urgency of the decision and risk tolerance Expected answer: Increasing competition in specific tech fields within 6-12 months Impact on approach: Would balance short-term expansion with long-term quality