Google GDC Relationship Reset via CTO Email to Manu
Situation
Drafted and sent strategic email directly to Manu at Google Engineering, acknowledging communication disconnect, offering FIPS 6.18 acceleration at certification cost only (~$180k, CIQ absorbs NRE), directing shared git repo setup for co-development transparency, and requesting Google revenue ramp projections. Reviewed draft with Bjorn before sending; forwarded final to Max crediting his input.
Reasoning
Google dissatisfaction hit critical point after last week's meetings. The inconsistent messaging (Nathan signaling long timelines, Peter signaling feasibility for a fee) needed a single authoritative CTO voice. The 90-day termination-for-convenience clause creates urgency. By absorbing NRE and only asking for certification cost, Peter demonstrates commitment while establishing the precedent that production work requires a commercial path. The shared git repo changes the dynamic from waiting on CIQ to working alongside CIQ. This is the execution of the FIPS 618 leverage strategy identified in the Apr 3 reflection.
Additional Context
Google Sync meeting with Bjorn and Kelly preceded the email. Kelly handling commercial follow-ups with Madhu. Wednesday NVIDIA VP meeting with Hassan from GCE is imminent - relationship needs stabilizing before that.
Observed Evidence
Direct email text to Manu sent Apr 6. Draft review email to Bjorn sent 15 min before final. FYI to Max crediting his input. Google Sync meeting strategy session. Impromptu doc editing session with Nathan/Kelly.
Matching Patterns
Confidence Breakdown
Reasoning Depth Analysis
People Involved
Source
reflection
AI Confidence
95%
Related Context
As a clear show of good faith I'll have the teams initiate the FIPS 6.18 work today. My only ask would be GDC covering the certification cost - about $180k from the lab.
fathom
Offer a good faith package to rebuild trust: accelerate FIPS 618 work for only its direct certification cost and provide a Git tree for collaboration.
fathom
FIPS doc must present two paths. Cost handling: single flat figure at doc bottom ($166,500). Node-drain doc tone shift to collaborative.
Outcome
No outcome recorded yet.
Decision ID: 5cc61691-ea7f-4a84-ac34-8e547c7e95cc