As someone who spends time with early-stage builders at South Park Commons, I often reflect on what makes certain founders and ideas especially compelling. I've found tremendous value in thinking about the legibility (and illegibility) of both the builder and their idea as they navigate -1 to 0.

The Legibility Matrix

Here’s a simple framework that I use when thinking through opportunities.

Founder Legibility (x-axis)

Illegible founders are harder to follow - their communication might be non-linear and, at worst, incoherent. Conversations leave you more confused than inspired. Their thinking may not translate well to others, making it difficult for potential teammates, users or partners to grasp their vision.

Legible founders are masterful storytellers who draw others into their worldview in a convincing manner. They zoom in and out fluidly from the 30,000-foot view to the detailed minutiae. After speaking with them, you feel like they've shared a secret insight, and you walk away convinced they're onto something important.

Idea Legibility (y-axis)

Legible ideas are well-understood and clear. They make immediate sense to investors and customers alike. The path to execution seems straightforward. However, this clarity can be a double-edged sword – these ideas might be too "on the nose" and somewhat predictable, potentially limiting their ultimate impact.

Illegible ideas initially seem far-fetched or hazy. They push the boundaries of what's possible and can be easily misunderstood or dismissed. However, this illegibility often stems from being a glimpse of what's to come in the future - they're operating at the edge of possibility where clarity is naturally limited. (I strongly prefer illegible ideas. :P)

Four Quadrants of Legibility

1. Legible Founder, Illegible Idea — "The Frontier Explorer"

This is the most exciting quadrant - you're a builder who can effectively articulate a vision that pushes boundaries. You make the impossible sound not just possible but inevitable, bringing others along on journeys to unexplored territories by creating a map through uncharted waters. You're not just building a product; you're creating new categories.

2. Illegible Founder, Illegible Idea — "Hidden Potential"

This quadrant represents a challenging but potentially rewarding path. Your idea might be groundbreaking, but you struggle to articulate it clearly to others. This is where finding the right co-founders, partners and community becomes crucial - surrounding yourself with people who can help you refine your communication or connecting with complementary co-founders who amplify your vision. The diamonds in the rough often start here.

3. Legible Founder, Legible Idea — "Clear Execution Play"

While perhaps not the most boundary-pushing opportunity, this path leverages your ability to execute, sell, and navigate building something valuable. The road ahead is clear, the risks are well-understood, and success comes down to execution excellence. The clarity you bring allows you to rally resources and talent efficiently.

4. Illegible Founder, Legible Idea — "NGMI"

This is the quadrant that requires the most work. In fact, it probably requires a hard reset. If you're struggling to articulate a straightforward concept, it raises questions about your ability to execute even with a clear roadmap.

Navigating the Matrix

As you navigate the -1, you should constantly assess (and ask others to help you assess) where you might fit in this legibility matrix.

• If you find yourself in the “NGMI” quadrant, you owe it to yourself to figure out what needs to change about the ambition of your idea or the clarity with which you communicate it.
• If you're in the "Clear Execution Play" quadrant, that's OK. Just make sure this is the place you want to play and own it.
• If you’re in the “Hidden Potential” quadrant, maniacally find ways to become a more legible storyteller through some combination of relentless practice, open-ended tinkering and seeking complementary partners.
• If you’re in the “Frontier Explorer” quadrant, we should talk. I love riffing on ideas that are just coming into focus with founders who have a knack for storytelling.