Scaling: what it is and what it means

Scaling is a mode of rapid growth — typically digital — achieved by replicating an already validated model, with revenue growth not proportional to the increase in costs. It differs from structured growth because scaling presupposes an already stable model to replicate, while structured growth is the organizational process that precedes and accompanies expansion. A tech startup can scale without structured growth, and it usually pays for it.

Distinctive: replicating an already validated model
Distinctive: revenue growth not proportional to the increase in costs
Essential: rapid growth
Essential: typically digital
Constant: already stable model to replicate

Glossary

Scaling

A mode of rapid growth — typically digital — achieved by replicating an already validated model, with revenue growth not proportional to the increase in costs.