RDI Decision Matrix — Criterion Definitions

J Bliss Perry + Dustin J Ross | Stanford GSB | STRAMGT 546 | Spring 2026

Scoring criteria for Project TBD’s RDI Decision Matrix. Each criterion rated 1–5 (5 = most favorable). Score of 3 = “unknown / more research needed.” Below 3 in any criterion is disqualifying.

MARKET & TIMING

Semiconductor Supply Chain TAM:

• 5: TAM exceeds $5B across compliance + intelligence + financial products
• 3: TAM is $1–5B and growing moderately
• 1: Addressable market is niche (<$500M)

Problem Urgency / Acuteness:

• 5: Firms actively failing compliance audits, facing shipment holds at customs
• 3: Problem recognized and growing; deadlines approaching but not yet binding
• 1: Pain exists but low-priority

Regulatory Tailwind Strength:

• 5: Multiple binding regulations with enforcement teeth (UFLPA, EAR, CHIPS Act, EU Battery Passport)
• 3: Regulations exist but enforcement is inconsistent
• 1: Regulatory environment is stable or deregulating

PRODUCT & TECHNOLOGY

Software-First Feasibility:

• 5: Entire v1 product is software; no hardware, no physical operations
• 3: Core product is software but requires hardware integration or on-prem deployment
• 1: Product requires significant hardware, physical infrastructure, or non-software operations

Data Moat Potential:

• 5: Product generates proprietary data as byproduct of usage that compounds over time
• 3: Product uses proprietary data but doesn’t generate new data from usage
• 1: Product relies on publicly available data with no proprietary accumulation

TEAM & EXECUTION

Founder-Market Fit:

• 5: Direct operational experience in the target industry + complementary technical/business skills
• 3: Adjacent experience with clear learning path
• 1: No relevant experience; credibility gap requires >24 months to close

Full 39K char document in local file: Signal/BlissPerry/media/Project_TBD_RDI_Rubric_Definitions.md