CODE2 Values Redefinition - From Traits to Behaviors

February 3, 2026 at 4:00 PMpeoplehigh

Situation

Proposed redefining CIQ CODE2 values from character traits (what people are) to observable behaviors (what people do). Created comprehensive framework translating each value (Customer Centric, Optimistic, Dedicated, Efficient, Excellent) into concrete, measurable actions for engineering. Shared draft with Bjorn first for alignment, then presented to Greg in 1:1.

Reasoning

Vague values create irresolvable conflicts - the Damon situation showed two people operating in good faith with different definitions of Dedicated, both feeling wronged. Identity-based feedback (youre not dedicated) feels like a character attack and is undeliverable. Behavior-based feedback (you didnt keep me informed) is actionable and coachable. Marriage counselor principle: never say you ARE bad, say you DID a bad thing. Performance management needs to actually work, not just exist.

Additional Context

Damon received average on Dedication despite working 80-hour weeks because Max meant focus on company priorities while Damon meant personal sacrifice. Both were right by their own definitions. This is a systems failure, not a people problem.

Observed Evidence

Full document shared via Slack DM to Bjorn with title Redefining CODE2: From What We Are to What We Do. Greg 1:1 action item: Draft Code 2 operational definitions for engineering; review w/ Greg; then roll out. Peter stated: The specifics are not complete enough. I want to work with max on them for engineering.

Matching Patterns

37%
Strategic Alignment for Rewards(keyword match on performance, same category (people))

Confidence Breakdown

35/35
Evidence
10/30
Pattern
25/20
Source
22/15
Corroboration

Reasoning Depth Analysis

Org Signal:Signals CIQ will judge people on ACTIONS not CHARACTER - major culture shift toward measurable accountability
Who Affected:Every employee will eventually be evaluated against this framework, starting with engineering
Precedent:Sets precedent that vague standards get fixed rather than tolerated
Consequences:Real - the Damon situation showed current system causes actual harm and unfair assessments
Timing:Now because performance review cycle is coming and have concrete example (Damon) to illustrate problem

Source

reflection

AI Confidence

92%

Related Context

💬
DM with Bjorn Hovland

slack

Redefining CODE2: From What We Are to What We Do... Our values describe what people are, not what people do.

🎥
Greg 1:1

fathom

Peter will create a document defining what being [value] means for engineers... roll this out to engineering this week after review with Greg

Outcome

Proposal well received.

Rating: 5/5

Decision ID: 820a7365-bd8a-42ca-a97f-e072713dc74e