Capability Increment

Intro

A Capability Increment is a discrete step that improves a capability to a defined target. It helps EA teams deliver value iteratively and show progress.

Key points:

• Small, testable improvements aligned to outcomes
• Makes roadmaps measurable and fundable
• Used in program planning, release trains, and benefits tracking
• Pitfall: increments too large to deliver within a planning cycle

Examples:

• Add automated address validation to reduce onboarding time
• Introduce a master data check before invoice generation
• Deploy self‑service reporting for sales pipeline visibility

In practice:

Define the desired capability state, then slice changes into increments with owners and KPIs.

Related terms: Capability; Roadmap; Minimum Viable Product

FAQs:

Q: How is this different from a project task?
A: It measures capability improvement, not just activity completed.

Q: How many increments per capability?
A: As needed to reach the target state without long delays.

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