What is the Organisationsdiplomaten Competence Center?

The Organisationsdiplomaten Competence Center is a Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) service that embeds expert support directly into your product development process. We structure the systems, methods, and teams required to build embedded products faster, more predictably, and more resiliently. Our core framework is the Reliance Framework™, proven across 50+ embedded product companies. What you get: operational support (not just advice), embedded expert teams within your organization, proven methodologies from ISO 9001, SCRUM, and agile practices, and reduced project delays and development risk.

How do I get started with Organisationsdiplomaten?

Getting started takes three simple steps: Step 1: Free Consultation (we analyze your current product development process and identify your biggest bottlenecks - this is a 1–2 hour conversation with no obligation). Step 2: Common Ground Workshop (you and your team participate in a Reliance Framework Master Class to establish shared understanding of where you are and where you need to go, building the foundation for effective collaboration). Step 3: 30-Day Pilot (we execute a focused pilot project using the Reliance Framework to address your most critical challenge - you see real results before committing to a longer engagement).

How is Organisationsdiplomaten different from traditional consulting?

Traditional consultants observe from the sidelines and provide recommendations. We embed directly into your team. Here's the difference: How they work (External advice vs. Operational partnership), Responsibility (You execute vs. We execute and share accountability), Timeframe (Project-based 3–6 months vs. Ongoing operational support), Focus (What to do vs. Building the system to do it consistently), Ownership (You own the outcome vs. We own the process; you own the product). Bottom line: We don't tell you how to run your product team. We run the operational structure around your product team so they can focus on building.

How does Organisationsdiplomaten compare to incubators and accelerators?

Incubators and accelerators are time-bounded programs designed to help startups launch or grow quickly. We're different: 3–12 month program vs. Ongoing operational partnership, Coaching and mentoring vs. Embedded expert teams, Network access and introductions vs. Structured product development system, Equity investment (optional) vs. Performance-based service agreement, Goal: Launch or raise funding vs. Goal: Build sustainable product organization. Why choose us: You get the same level of expert support as an accelerator, but without the fixed timeline or equity dilution. Our team scales with you from MVP to enterprise.

What are the main use cases for the Competence Center?

The Competence Center is ideal for: Pre-Market / Early Stage (BASIC Plan) - Founders with MVPs who want to avoid costly mistakes before market entry, teams operating on tight budgets ( €5M, need: sustainable growth with ISO compliance and governance, teams: 20+ people managing multiple products and portfolios.

What is included in the BASIC plan?

The BASIC plan is designed for pre-market founders and early MVP teams. Included: Common Ground Audit (one-day workshop to map your current state and most critical bottlenecks), 30-Day Reliance Framework™ Pilot (hands-on implementation of proven processes for one key project), Access to Technology & Method Office (tools, templates, and expert guidance for your day-to-day work), Access to Project Office (coordination support, milestone tracking, and delivery management). Cost: Starting at €499/month. Ideal for: Teams with < €120K annual runway preparing for market entry. Expected outcomes: Fewer project delays and rework, clear milestones and measurable progress, reduced risk of costly mistakes before launch.

What is included in the STANDARD plan?

The STANDARD plan is for companies growing after launch and scaling toward €1M annual revenue. Included (everything from BASIC, plus): Common Ground Analysis Report (detailed assessment of your team structure, process gaps, and readiness for scaling), 90-Day Reliance Framework™ Change Project (deep integration of competence center into your daily operations), Dedicated Competence Center (embedded team managing coordination, quality, compliance, and cross-functional alignment), Advanced Methods (SCRUM, Agile, ISO 9001™, OLGE, Design Thinking, tailored to your product). Cost: Starting at €3,000/month. Ideal for: Post-launch teams managing growth while maintaining operational quality. Expected outcomes: Faster cross-functional alignment, shorter time-to-decision, predictable delivery and reduced firefighting, compliance-ready processes.

What is included in the ENTERPRISE plan?

The ENTERPRISE plan is for established companies scaling sustainably with annual budgets > €5M. Included (everything from STANDARD, plus): Center of Excellence (shared best-practice hub elevating quality across all teams), Technology Office (tools, infrastructure, and continuous method optimization), Risk Hub (proactive identification and management of product and organizational risks), Governance & Compliance Office (ISO 9001, ISO 27001, regulatory, and audit management), Portfolio, Program, and Project Management Offices (enterprise-level visibility and strategic alignment), Full ISO-IMUSS Integration (unified management system across product, quality, compliance, and finance). Cost: Starting at €18,000/month. Ideal for: Multi-product organizations requiring structured scaling and compliance rigor. Expected outcomes: Enterprise-grade governance and quality assurance, unified decision-making across departments, reduced compliance overhead while increasing control, attracts and retains top talent through structured growth.

How much does the Competence Center cost?

Pricing is modular and based on your organization's stage and size: BASIC (Pre-Market, €5M budget) - Starting at €18,000/month. How pricing works: Each plan starts at the listed cost for the minimum scope, services are billed monthly and can be scaled up or down based on your evolving needs, you can pause the service for €50/month (includes email and WhatsApp support). No long-term lock-in: After your 30-day pilot, the standard cancellation period is one quarter (90 days). BASIC plan is month-to-month.

What are the cancellation terms?

During the pilot (30 days): You can cancel at the end of the week in which the pilot ends with no penalty. After the pilot: STANDARD and ENTERPRISE plans require one-quarter (90-day) notice, BASIC plan is month-to-month cancellation. Pause option: You can pause your Competence Center for €50/month (includes continued WhatsApp and email support). This is ideal if you need temporary relief but want to maintain continuity. What happens to your data and documentation: When you cancel, all documentation you created during our partnership is yours to keep. Your project information is deleted 30 days after cancellation. Contact information is retained for 5 years (standard business practice).

How long does it take to see results?

First 30 days (Pilot phase): Most teams see measurable results within the first month: clearer decision-making, faster project milestones, and reduced chaos. This is why we recommend the pilot—it's proof of concept in your actual environment. 3–6 months (Early integration): Bigger changes emerge: cross-functional alignment improves, meeting overhead drops, and teams stop firefighting. Engineering and product leaders finally have time for strategic thinking instead of constant tactical adjustments. 6–12 months (Full maturity): The system becomes self-sustaining. Your team internalizes the rhythms and methods. Delivery becomes predictable. New hires onboard faster because processes are clear and documented.

Can we start with a smaller scope and add services later?

Yes, absolutely. The Reliance Framework is designed to scale with your organization. Common progression: Start with BASIC (focus on one project or team), Expand to STANDARD (embed across full product org), Evolve to ENTERPRISE (add governance, compliance, portfolio management). You can also add specific services on demand—extra coaching hours, specialized audits, or crisis intervention—without committing to a full tier upgrade.

What if we want to bring in another service provider later?

You're free to do so. We document everything thoroughly and transition smoothly. Our commitment to you: Complete, organized documentation of all processes and systems we've built, transfer of knowledge to your team or replacement provider, no restrictive contracts or switching penalties, your independence and full control remain intact. Why most clients stay: Once the Competence Center is embedded and running smoothly, most clients choose to continue because the system is proven and the team is already aligned. But the choice is always yours.

How do you handle data protection and security?

We take GDPR (DSGVO) compliance seriously. Our approach: Client data stays on your systems (we use your company's provided laptops and IT infrastructure for sensitive work), Secure tools for collaboration (Trello, Miro, and other vetted platforms for project coordination), No local data storage (your project information remains in your environment), Clear data handling agreements (all specifics are outlined in your Service Management Agreement). After cancellation: Project data is deleted 30 days after cancellation, contact information is retained for 5 years (legal requirement), all other personal data is deleted after 2 years.

What documentation and IP do we own after the partnership ends?

You own everything: All processes, templates, and methodologies created for your company belong to you. Documentation is comprehensive and organized so you (or any future provider) can understand and continue the work. Custom materials, custom data, and project documentation are yours to keep. You can use, modify, or share these materials as you see fit. We retain: Learning and best-practice insights (anonymized) to improve our service for other clients, brief testimonials about the engagement (with your consent).

How is support provided?

Availability: WhatsApp, mobile hotline, and email support, Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM CET, custom arrangements can be made in your Service Management Agreement (SMA). Types of support: Day-to-day (access to your embedded Competence Center team), Escalation (direct contact with senior experts for complex issues), Emergency (priority response for critical blockers).

What is the Service Management Agreement (SMA)?

The Service Management Agreement is a simple, clear contract between you and us. It outlines: Scope of services (what we'll manage: project coordination, quality assurance, compliance, etc.), Your ownership (you keep full control of your product, customers, and vision), Working principles (how we collaborate, communication rhythms, and escalation paths), Costs and payment (pricing, billing cycles, and payment terms), Data handling (how we protect and manage your information), Exit terms (cancellation periods and transition support). Why it matters: The SMA makes sure both sides have crystal-clear expectations. It's not restrictive—it's protective. It ensures you get what you need and we can deliver it reliably.

When does the pilot phase start?

The pilot phase begins 3 days after you sign the Service Management Agreement (SMA). Typical timeline: Day 1 (Discovery call and pricing discussion), Day 2 (SMA negotiation and signature), Days 3–5 (Reliance Framework Master Class for your team), Days 6–35 (30-day focused pilot on your most critical bottleneck), Day 36 (Review and decision for ongoing engagement or cancel with no penalty). Why the 3-day buffer: Gives your team time to prepare, clear calendars, and mentally shift to the collaborative mode needed for success.

Do you require special IT infrastructure or access?

Not usually. Most clients only need a shared collaboration space (physical or virtual) and access to common tools like Miro or Trello. For deeper integrations (Release management, Compliance support, etc.): Your IT team provides a dedicated company laptop, we work within your existing IT environment, you retain full control of which systems we access. Remote-ready: You can work with us fully remotely. We support distributed teams across time zones.

What are the five dilemmas in the Reliance Framework?

Every product company faces five fundamental dilemmas. The Reliance Framework helps you navigate all of them: 1. Builder Dilemma (Founder-Problem Fit): Do the founders' vision and the market's actual needs align? Or are you building in a vacuum? 2. Cohesion Dilemma (Problem-Solution Fit): Is your team united around a clear 'why' and shared understanding of the solution? Or are people pulling in different directions? 3. Entry Dilemma (Technology-Solution Fit): Is your solution technically feasible and ready for market entry? Have you validated the MVP? 4. Demand Dilemma (Product-Market Fit): Is there real customer demand for your product? Does the market actually care? 5. Channel Dilemma (Channel-Market Fit): Can you reach your target customers effectively? Do you have scalable distribution? Why it matters: Most product failures don't come from technical problems. They come from unresolved dilemmas that leave the team misaligned or building the wrong thing. The Reliance Framework makes these trade-offs visible and actionable.

What is the OLGE Toolkit?

OLGE is a structured facilitation tool built into the Reliance Framework to help teams navigate ambiguity and make clear decisions fast. What it does: Helps teams see different perspectives without endless debate, clarifies what matters most in complex trade-offs, builds shared understanding before decisions, creates a repeatable decision-making rhythm. When to use it: Product strategy decisions (feature prioritization, go-to-market timing), resource allocation under uncertainty, cross-functional alignment meetings, risk assessment and mitigation planning. The result: Better decisions made faster, with buy-in from all stakeholders.

What is Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO)?

KPO is different from traditional outsourcing. With traditional outsourcing, you hand off tasks to an external vendor. With KPO, you partner with experts who embed into your organization and take responsibility for high-value business processes. In practice: We don't just advise or consult—we execute, we manage the operational systems around product creation, you stay in control of strategy, customers, and product vision, we handle structure, rhythm, coordination, and compliance. Why KPO for embedded products: Building great embedded products requires deep domain expertise, proven systems, and consistent execution. Most startups and growth companies don't have time to build this from scratch. We do it for you.

How do you balance growth and quality?

This is a classic organizational dilemma. Here's how we handle it: Growth (faster shipping): Lean processes, fast decision-making, iterative validation. Quality (fewer bugs, compliance): Structured testing, peer review, compliance checks. Our approach: We embed process governance that catches critical issues before they become expensive problems, without creating bureaucratic bloat. This means: Faster shipping, fewer surprises in production, passing audits and compliance reviews, happy engineers (less firefighting, more building).

Are there case studies or client references?

Yes. We have case studies from companies across embedded product verticals—automotive, medical devices, industrial IoT, and software-driven hardware. Due to confidentiality: We cannot disclose client names (strict NDAs), but we can provide detailed case studies showing industry, company size, specific challenges, and measurable outcomes. Request a case study: Contact us and we'll share relevant examples for your vertical and stage.

What sets Organisationsdiplomaten apart from other consultants in the embedded product space?

Three core differentiators: 1. We embed, not advise: Most consultants produce reports and recommendations. We execute the system and stay accountable for results. 2. We're built for embedded products specifically: Not generic product consulting. We understand hardware-software integration, regulatory compliance (medical, automotive, industrial), long development cycles, and distributed teams. 3. We scale with you: From founder-led MVP teams to enterprise-level product organizations. The same core framework evolves to match your needs.

How do you handle risk and uncertainty?

Risk management is built into the Reliance Framework. Our approach: Risk Hub (dedicated function that surfaces risks early and creates structured dialogue around them), Proactive, not reactive (we identify problems in planning and design, not during crisis mode), Visibility (all stakeholders—leadership, investors, customers—see risks and mitigation plans), Bold innovation, safe execution (risk is managed, not hidden. This enables smarter decision-making and faster pivots when needed).

Can your framework work for remote and distributed teams?

Absolutely. In fact, most of our clients are remote-first or hybrid. Why it works well: Clear processes and documented methods (easier to follow remotely), asynchronous decision-making tools (OLGE, structured feedback), virtual collaboration tools (Miro, Trello, shared documentation), regular synchronous rhythms (standups, decision gates, reviews). Remote success factors: Intentional communication cadence, clear ownership and accountability, written decisions (not just verbal agreements), timezone-aware scheduling.

What if we're already using Scrum or Agile? Does the Reliance Framework conflict?

No—the Reliance Framework works with Scrum and Agile, not against them. What we add: Governance layer (clear decision-making and accountability), Cross-functional coordination (engineering doesn't work in isolation), Quality and compliance (embedded from the start, not added at the end), Strategic alignment (product priorities are visible to leadership and investors), Risk management (risks are surfaced and managed proactively). In practice: Your engineering teams keep using Scrum. We add structure and visibility around them, so the entire organization is aligned and moving forward together.

How often do we need to meet and coordinate?

Meeting overhead depends on your plan and current state. During pilot (30 days): 2–3 hours per week from your core team (leadership, product, engineering), daily standups with the embedded team (15 minutes). After integration: Weekly planning meetings (1 hour), bi-weekly decision gates (1 hour), monthly strategy reviews (2 hours). Total: ~4–5 hours per week of management time, which is more than offset by time saved in firefighting and duplicate decision-making. Flexibility: Meeting cadence is customized to your organization. We optimize for your needs, not process dogma.

What if we have concerns or want to pause during an engagement?

We have clear mechanisms to address concerns. If issues arise: Surface concerns to your account manager, we schedule a sync with leadership to diagnose and problem-solve, adjust approach or scope as needed, document agreement and move forward. If you need breathing room: You can pause the service for €50/month. During pause, you retain email and WhatsApp support, and your team keeps access to documentation and tools. If you want to cancel: Standard notice period is one quarter. We transition all knowledge to you or your next partner and ensure continuity.

Who typically leads the implementation on your side?

Each engagement is led by a dedicated Competence Center Lead who: Owns the success of your engagement, serves as primary point of contact, coordinates with specialized experts (project management, quality, compliance, etc.), conducts regular reviews and adjusts approach as needed, stays involved throughout the engagement, not just during implementation.

How is the Competence Center scaled as the organization grows?

The Reliance Framework is modular and designed to evolve with you. Stage 1 (Pre-Market): Basic project and quality management. Stage 2 (Post-Launch): Add risk management and cross-functional coordination. Stage 3 (Scaling): Add portfolio management, compliance offices, governance structures. Each stage adds capability without adding chaos. We introduce new functions only when they're needed, with training and documentation built in.

What happens if key team members leave or change roles?

This is why documentation and knowledge transfer are core to our service. Continuity mechanisms: All processes are documented and accessible (not held in one person's head), knowledge is shared across your team, not dependent on external consultants, new team members onboard quickly because systems are clear, institutional memory is preserved in dashboards, templates, and playbooks. When someone leaves: Your Competence Center lead helps identify the knowledge gap and fills it through mentoring or structured documentation. No disruption.

Are there any geographic or timezone limitations?

No. We work with clients globally. Time zone support: We have team members across Europe and are flexible with meeting times. Language: Primarily German and English; other languages on request. Legal: We work within your country's labor, data protection, and contracting laws.

Can you integrate with our existing tech stack and tools?

Yes. We're tool-agnostic. What we use: Project management (Jira, Asana, Monday.com, Trello - your choice), Collaboration (Miro, Figma, Confluence, Notion - your choice), Communication (Slack, Teams, email, whatever you already have), Data (your databases, APIs, and systems remain yours). Our principle: We integrate with your environment, not the other way around.

What if we're in a different vertical (e.g., medical devices, automotive, industrial)?

We have deep expertise in embedded products across verticals: medical, automotive, industrial IoT, consumer electronics, and software-driven hardware. Vertical-specific support: Medical (FDA/CE compliance integration, quality management systems, design controls), Automotive (ASPICE, functional safety ISO 26262, supply chain management), Industrial (IEC standards, safety, longevity and reliability). Your advantage: We don't treat your industry like a generic 'software' problem. We know the specific regulations, standards, and challenges in your space.

How do we prevent the Competence Center from becoming a bottleneck itself?

Great question. This is exactly the opposite of what we do. Design principle: The Competence Center should enable your teams, not slow them down. How we keep it lean: Processes are minimal and necessary (not bureaucratic), decision-making authority is pushed to the lowest competent level, the Competence Center is a support function, not a gatekeeping function, regular reviews to eliminate unnecessary friction. Team feedback is essential: If the system is slowing you down, we adjust immediately.

FAQs 1 — Organisationsdiplomaten

Frequently Asked Questions

What is OrganisationsDiplomaten?

OrganisationsDiplomaten is a venture builder that helps companies create software-driven and embedded products efficiently and confidently. We work with founder teams, managers, and CTOs to bring structure, speed, and alignment to complex product creation. Our goal is simple: to make innovation capital-efficient by combining engineering, strategy, and customer insight into one system.

What is the Reliance Framework?

The Reliance Framework™ is a field-tested product creation system built for embedded and software-driven ventures. It connects customer development, product management, and engineering execution into one continuous loop. The framework replaces chaos with clarity, turning product development into a structured, repeatable process.

Quick Answer: The Reliance Framework helps teams move from idea to market with confidence and measurable progress.

Details:

Customer-to-Backlog Interface: Turns customer feedback into engineering-ready tasks.
Playbooks: Three key guides — OLGE, Full Scrum Guide, and Developer Bench — support every phase.
Outcome: Predictable progress, faster validation, and reduced capital waste.

What problem does it solve?

Most teams fail not because of poor ideas but because of misalignment between speed, scope, and cost. This leads to chaos, delays, and burned runway. The Reliance Framework brings structure and rhythm, helping founders stay on the critical path from concept to market.

Quick Answer: It prevents wasted time, lost focus, and expensive rework by aligning teams, decisions, and resources.

Challenge Without Reliance Framework With Reliance Framework Alignment Disconnected departments, unclear roles Shared structure and ownership Speed Firefighting, missed deadlines Predictable, fast decisions Cost Capital wasted on rework Efficient, validated progress

Who is it for?

The Reliance Framework is built for founders, CTOs, and product leaders developing embedded, IoT, and smart device solutions. It’s designed for teams that want to reduce waste, gain clarity, and build products customers actually love.

Quick Answer: If your product involves both hardware and software — and your process feels chaotic — this is for you.

How is this different from consulting or outsourcing?

We don’t advise from the sidelines. We embed within your team. Our model is called Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) — a hands-on partnership that installs structure and systems inside your organization.

Quick Answer: We help you build internal capability, not dependency.

Example: A consultant gives advice. We co-run the system that delivers results.

Comparison Consulting Outsourcing OrganisationsDiplomaten Role Advisor External executor Embedded partner Focus Reports and workshops Deliverables Systems and performance Duration Short-term Variable Long-term and structural Ownership Client Vendor Shared with client

What results can I expect?

Clients typically see measurable improvements within 30 days. During the pilot phase, bottlenecks become visible, decisions speed up, and product momentum returns.

Quick Answer: Faster alignment, better control, and improved capital efficiency.

Typical Outcomes:

Shorter time to validated prototypes
Reliable decision-making and delivery
Increased leadership bandwidth
Lower development costs through fewer pivots

How does the sales process work?

Our process is built for clarity and low risk.

Quick Answer: We start with shared understanding, validate fit through a 30‑day pilot, and scale only once value is proven.

Steps:

Self‑Assessment: Identify your biggest bottlenecks.
Common Ground Workshop: Build shared context and alignment.
Service Management Agreement (SMA): Define scope and roles.
Pilot Phase: Run a 30‑day engagement with measurable results.
Integration: Embed the full Competence Center after successful validation.

What is the Competence Center?

The Competence Center is the operational backbone of the Reliance Framework. It integrates steering functions that keep innovation stable and scalable.

Quick Answer: It’s your internal system for coordinated product creation.

Key Offices:

Project & Program Management: Keep delivery aligned with strategy.
Technology & Methods Office: Ensure best practices and tool use.
Risk Hub: Turn uncertainty into informed decisions.
Compliance & Governance: Maintain trust and audit readiness.

What is the Reliance Framework Self‑Assessment?

The Self‑Assessment helps your team see where it stands in the product creation journey and identify hidden bottlenecks.

Quick Answer: It’s a 3‑minute diagnostic to reveal strengths and gaps before investing further.

Benefits:

Clear overview of structural maturity
Alignment across leadership on next steps
Better prioritization for scaling or improvement

How do you measure success?

Quick Answer: Success is measured by clarity, efficiency, and maturity.

Metric Description Example Result Operational Clarity Everyone knows what to do and why 40% faster decision time Capital Efficiency Less waste in rework and delays 25% lower development cost Product Maturity Faster movement from prototype to market 2x speed to validated MVP

How secure is our data?

We comply with GDPR (DSGVO) and use secure, industry‑standard collaboration tools like Miro and Trello. Sensitive data stays within your IT environment.

Quick Answer: Your data remains in your control and under EU‑compliant protection.

Data Policy Highlights:

No local storage of sensitive data
Defined retention and deletion timelines
Complete data transfer at contract end

How can I start?

You can begin today with the Reliance Framework Self‑Assessment or book a 30‑minute demo session.

Quick Answer: Start small, learn fast, and see results within 30 days.

Take the Self‑Assessment Book a Demo