Atomic Scaling with Ludovic Bodin: The Secret to Scaling Your Vision

Atomic Scaling, a concept authored by Ludovic Bodin, encourages making smart, manageable moves (i.e., making small changes to a product instead of a complete redesign) that add up to something big. Ludovic recommends using the 3P3R method (People, Prediction, Playbook, Reach, Revenue, and Retention) to implement Atomic Scaling, which involves setting clear, achievable goals (like aiming to get 100 new users rather than 1,000 right away), analyzing resources (like checking how much budget and team capacity you have before starting), and anticipating challenges (like planning for delays or unexpected costs) while maintaining adaptability.

Why is atomic scaling important?

Atomic Scaling is especially relevant as new businesses are increasing and established businesses are plateauing unlike anything seen before. In just India alone, the number of startups is expected to double (i.e., from 120,000 in 2023 to 240000 by 2030), while America has over one million startups right now (with a 58% surge in startup failures in 2024 Q1 compared to the same period in 2023).

Example: Krispy Kreme aggressive expansion strategies in the early 2000’s resulted in financial losses and an accounting scandal. Similarly, Borders Books failed to adapt to the rise of online retail, leading to its demise.

For entrepreneurs (like Ilkka Paananen, co-founder and CEO who used this approach to make Supercell a billion dollar enterprise), startups (ZeptoLab employed atomic scaling to gain 2.5 billion downloads for “Cut the Rope”), and even established businesses (i.e., even Alain Crozier, former CEO of Microsoft Greater China, endorsed the methodology), atomic scaling makes growth possible without losing sight of objectives by prioritizing small wins and quick iterations.

Understanding the 3P3R method

The 3P3R method is a core component of Ludovic Bodin’s Atomic Scaling framework that focuses on 6 fundamental principles: People, Prediction, Playbook, Reach, Revenue, and Retention.

Breaking down the 3P3R method

It all starts with People, building a strong, motivated team that sets everything in motion. From there, you use Prediction to spot what’s coming next. With that foresight, you build a clear and practical Playbook so everyone knows where they’re going and how to get there. As things roll out, you track Revenue closely to measure what’s working and what’s not. Then comes Reach—looking back to understand what truly connected with your audience. Finally, you double down on Retention: not just keeping customers around, but helping them succeed and grow their profits, because when they win, you win.

Let’s learn how to get started with each of the six pillars.

People: Building the foundation for predictive success

“Why don’t you stop hiring and focus more on your existing team?” – Advice from Ilkka Paananen, CEO of Supercell, that inspired Ludovic to rethink scaling.

To build effective teams, start by clearly defining the skills and expertise required for your project. One practical framework companies can apply is the Belbin Team Roles model. It identifies nine essential roles, such as Coordinator, Implementer, and Plant, helping you create a balanced and effective team. Another approach is using the Tuckman’s Stages of Group Development (Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, Adjourning) to track team progress and adapt leadership strategies accordingly.

“One of the first elements to evaluate a good team is to see if there is what we call a ‘magical pair’ at the top of the team.” Ludovic Bodin on a podcast with Christopher Richter, co-founder MC² Finance

Thereafter, conduct a skills gap analysis to identify missing competencies (i.e., through either the McKinsey Skills Matrix or the Competency Framework by CIPD) and recruit accordingly. Once the right individuals are onboarded, create a collaborative environment by fostering open communication and setting clear expectations. One useful framework to guide this process is the Team Communication Wheel, which helps identify key communication areas such as goal setting, feedback loops, and conflict resolution. Furthermore, use regular meetings and collaboration tools like Discord, Linear or Slack to keep coordination optimal.

💡 A study by Stanford University found that teams collaborating effectively are 50% more productive than those that do not.

Note that building the right team is just the first step. Once you have that solid foundation, you need to think ahead: how do you ensure this team not only performs well now but also stays relevant as the market evolves? That’s where Prediction comes in.

Prediction: Turning team insights into strategic foresight

“The most important muscle that will really make a difference long term between extremely successful and successful is your prediction muscle.” Ludovic Bodin

With a well-structured team in place, you resume analyzing past performance data and identifying trends that could impact your current goals. One framework that is ideal is PESTLE Analysis combined with SWOT. Then, use forecasting tools like Tableau or Microsoft Power BI to visualize potential outcomes.

Define key performance indicators (KPIs) that will help track progress and reveal potential challenges, like revenue growth rate, customer acquisition cost (CAC), conversion rate, social media engagement, and customer satisfaction score (CSAT). The key here is to maintain a dynamic approach (i.e., continuously update your predictions as new data comes).

💡 A McKinsey report suggests that organizations using predictive analytics can see a revenue boost of up to 20% while reducing operational inefficiencies by 30%.

Prediction, however, is only as good as the framework that supports it. To make sure your predictions don’t just remain theoretical, you need a consistent Playbook to put them into action.

Playbook: Building the roadmap from prediction to execution

“Playbook is about where you want to be good at and why.” Ludovic Bodin

Once predictions are made, document the key processes that led to successful outcomes, breaking them down into repeatable steps (e.g., SOP [Standard Operating Procedure] Framework). Involve experienced team members to build and regularly update a practical, real-world guide.

💡 A study by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics found that around 20% of new businesses fail within two years and 45% within five years, primarily due to ineffective strategy implementation.

Still, a playbook alone doesn’t guarantee success; it’s crucial to Review the outcomes as well. This helps you understand whether the playbook actually delivered the predicted results or if adjustments are needed.

Reach: Acquisition with clarity

“Reach starts with speed. We go for milliseconds… but then we learned that delaying the decision actually made us more profitable.” Ludovic Bodin

Reach is about earning the attention of the right people — those who are most likely to engage, convert, and stay. Thus, it entails measuring what truly matters: CAC by channel, cost per activation, and conversion based on intent. It’s not enough to know where your users come from; you need to understand why they arrive and what they’re looking for. Hence, use mixed methods analysis; pair the hard data with real user stories to spot patterns and blind spots.

💡 Dylan’s Candy Bar boosted repeat purchases from 1.3% to 15% by shifting from broad reach to targeting their most valuable buyers using predictive marketing via BuyerGenomics.

Reach starts the loop by bringing users in, but without the right value exchange, that reach won’t convert. That’s where revenue comes in.

Revenue: Monetization with meaning

“When you develop a strategy, you develop a system. And the most important part is consistency in following that system.” Ludovic Bodin

Not every user becomes a paying customer, and not every customer brings long-term value. Revenue is the art of aligning value creation with value capture. The focus here should be on optimizing the journey from onboarding to the user’s “aha” moment — the point where they feel real impact. Pricing should feel natural, not forced. Analyze patterns in your monetization funnel through key indicators like MRR, ARPU, and churn risk.

💡 A B2B SaaS company grew revenue from $2M to $18M and doubled customer spend by simply improving onboarding and helping users see value faster.

When your monetization model is aligned with the user's experience and outcomes, you're no longer just earning revenue—you’re earning trust. And trust is what fuels the next stage: retention.

Retention: Compounding through consistency

“The best way to build your knowledge is to build your friendships.” Ludovic Bodin

It’s cheaper to keep a user than acquire a new one, and returning users are far more likely to refer, upgrade, and advocate. Retention signifies a system, not a one-time fix. That’s why the PDCA loop (Plan, Do, Check, Act) works so well. Start by mapping out drop-off points, test improvements like nudges, rewards, or UI tweaks, check the cohort data to track behavior over time, and act on what’s working. This constant iteration turns good products into great habits.

💡 A medical device company saved over $250K a year just by using a simple PDCA system to keep improving what already worked.

Related methods in atomic scaling

While the 3P3R method is central to Atomic Scaling, there are several other methods related to this concept, such as:

Hemicube method

Think of the Hemicube Method as a way to understand how much influence (like light) each part of your environment has on a central point (like your business decision). Start by placing your business at the center of a “hemicube” (the cube here signifies a structured way of capturing inputs from all directions) and imagine that each face of the cube represents a different factor impacting your decision (like market trends, customer feedback, competitor actions, financial data, and internal performance).

DSM Engineering Plastics wanted cheaper, more flexible heat sinks for LED lights, so they switched from aluminum to polymer. They used AcuSolve software, which applied the Hemicube Method to predict how heat would spread, helping them design better products without building as many prototypes.

Break each face into smaller parts, like pixels, representing specific data points (like sales numbers, social media metrics, or competitor moves). Then, look at each face one by one, identifying which data points are most visible and relevant (like shining a light on them). Calculate how much influence each point has by considering its size (impact) and distance (relevance). Finally, add up all these influences to get an understanding of how different factors shape your business decision.

In the context of Atomic Scaling, this method can be metaphorically linked to how businesses view their scaling potential from multiple angles. Instead of looking at growth from a single perspective, Atomic Scaling, similar to the Hemicube approach, encourages evaluating growth from different dimensions.

Comparison with 3P3R: While 3P3R builds momentum through a step-by-step sequence, the Hemicube method provides a multi-dimensional snapshot all at once. It’s like comparing a timeline to a panorama: 3P3R walks you through growth, while Hemicube lets you view influence from all sides before moving forward.

Example: If 3P3R uses a planned campaign to track performance across stages, the Hemicube method overlays all business inputs at once — market trends, customer behavior, internal data — to decide the best angle for growth.

Zzll method

The Zzll method (i.e., a speedcubing method) in business involves systematically cutting out inefficient tasks, data, or processes, similar to clearing your workspace of clutter to improve focus. Start by identifying redundant elements (like repetitive meetings or outdated data) using tools such as process mapping software (e.g., Lucidchart, Miro) to visualize workflows and data analytics platforms (like Tableau or Power BI) to spot inefficiencies. Next, assess their impact on productivity (using KPI tracking tools like HubSpot or Google Analytics to measure time spent on low-value activities) and determine which tasks can be automated or eliminated. Prioritize removing or streamlining these components (using project management software such as Asana or Trello to assign tasks and track progress) to enhance efficiency.

Daman Products, a hydraulic valve manufacturer, used process mapping and data analysis tools akin to the Zzll method to eliminate inefficiencies (like long cycle and setup times). They cut cycle times by 97% and reduced lead times from weeks to just days.

The Zzll Method, often associated with optimization in data processing, focuses on reducing redundancy and enhancing efficiency. This resonates with Atomic Scaling’s principle of breaking down tasks to minimize wasted effort and streamline operations. While the Zzll Method is more technical, the underlying goal of efficient resource utilization aligns well with Atomic Scaling.

Comparison with 3P3R: The Zzll method focuses on cutting noise and streamlining workflows, while 3P3R focuses on aligning people and process in a growth-oriented direction. Zzll removes the unnecessary; 3P3R activates and scales what works.

Where Zzll eliminates redundant meetings or datasets, 3P3R would structure a small team to predict outcomes, assign playbook tasks, and track efficiency through Revenue, Reach, and Retention.

Gummel method

The Gummel Method in business works like tackling a big, complex problem by breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps and continuously checking progress to ensure accuracy. It starts by dividing the project into distinct, smaller tasks (using task management tools like Asana or Jira to track each step). Then, work on each task individually, solving one part at a time (applying iterative problem-solving techniques such as the PDCA Cycle [Plan-Do-Check-Act] to adjust and improve). As you complete each task, evaluate its accuracy and effectiveness (using progress monitoring tools like Monday.com or Smartsheet).

Celoxis transitioned from using spreadsheets and ineffective project management tools to adopting a scalable, all-in-one project management solution be implementing a work breakdown structure, which is similar in spirit to the Gummel Method.

Atomic Scaling shares this iterative nature of the Gummel method, as both methods emphasize gradually solving problems rather than tackling everything at once. In business scaling, this means continuously adjusting and refining processes rather than implementing large, one-time changes.

Comparison with 3P3R: Gummel is methodical and mathematical—solving one part of the puzzle at a time—while 3P3R is human-centered and scalable, starting with team alignment and moving toward growth. Both iterate, but 3P3R connects people, predictions, and performance in a linear flow.

Example: In Gummel, customer acquisition is broken into small solvable pieces. In 3P3R, you’d build a motivated team, predict what channels to test, and create a playbook that you refine as results come in.

5W2H method

The 5W2H Method in business works like planning an event where you ensure every detail is covered to avoid surprises. Start by focusing on the 5W:

What (What needs to be done or what the problem is)

Why (Why it’s important or why it’s happening)

Who (Who is responsible or involved)

Where (Where the task will take place)

When (When it needs to be completed)

Next, address the 2H:

How (How the process will happen or what steps are involved)

How much (The cost or effort required)

To organize these elements efficiently, use project management tools like Trello or Notion to assign responsibilities and track progress, ensuring nothing is missed.

A multinational e-commerce company faced declining customer satisfaction due to increased complaints about support services. By applying the 5W2H method, they identified issues like long response times and inadequate agent training.

This approach is similar to Atomic Scaling’s emphasis on breaking down tasks into manageable parts. The 5W2H Method aids in clear planning, much like the 3P3R method, by systematically addressing essential questions.

Comparison with 3P3R: 5W2H uses questions to gain clarity, while 3P3R uses people and structure to drive progress. 5W2H asks "what, why, who, where, when, how, and how much"—a preparatory phase. 3P3R takes that clarity and channels it through predictive action and structured repetition.

Example: 5W2H might outline every aspect of a failed launch, but 3P3R would use the team to reassess, predict a better strategy, and track revenue impact for iterative success.

AOAC 968.08 method

The AOAC 968.08 Method in business works like running a quality control check at a food factory, where you need a consistent and accurate way to ensure every product meets the required standards. You start by establishing a standardized testing procedure (using quality management tools like ISO standards or Six Sigma techniques) to analyze samples consistently. Follow the same steps every time (using Standard Operating Procedures [SOPs] to maintain uniformity), and record the results systematically (using data logging software like LabWare LIMS or Qualityze).

For instance, laboratories performing feed analysis adhere to AOAC 968.08 method to accurately assess mineral content, which is crucial for formulating balanced animal diets and meeting regulatory requirements.

This is a standardized method used in food analysis. While it may seem unrelated, the core idea of following a structured, repeatable process mirrors Atomic Scaling’s focus on consistency and reproducibility.

Comparison with 3P3R: AOAC 968.08 is all about standardization and consistency. 3P3R also values repeatability but does so through a people-first, strategic execution model that’s more adaptable than procedural.

Example: AOAC 968.08 might test the same formula over and over; 3P3R would repeat high-performing strategies while tracking impact through revenue and retention metrics.

PQ3R method

The PQ3R method in business works like a continuous improvement loop, where you constantly refine your approach to achieve better results. We begin by Planning your actions (using strategic planning tools like Asana or Monday.com to outline your objectives and steps). Next, Question the outcomes by analyzing the data (using analytics tools like Google Analytics or HubSpot to evaluate campaign performance). Then, Review what worked and what didn’t (conducting post-campaign analysis meetings with your team). After that, Reflect on the process (using feedback from stakeholders or team members to understand challenges and insights). Finally, Repeat the process, applying the lessons learned to the next campaign for continuous improvement.

A study at Al-Mu'ini Sesela demonstrated that applying PQ3R (Preview, Question, Read, Recite, Review) significantly improved students' reading comprehension, with proficiency increasing from 46% to 82% over two cycles.

The PQ3R method is directly in line with Atomic Scaling, as both methods focus on iterative improvement. By consistently questioning and reflecting on progress, businesses can adapt and grow in a structured yet flexible manner.

Comparison with 3P3R: PQ3R (Plan, Question, Read, Recite, Review) leans on reflection to improve. 3P3R scales that concept: it starts with team motivation, predicts smart moves, and codifies them into a repeatable system.

Example: PQ3R might optimize an email campaign by reviewing and revising. 3P3R would plan with a lean team, test audience predictions, and lock in what's working across multiple channels.

Cotwin method

The Cotwin Method in business works like comparing two similar but independent projects to determine which one yielded better results. You start by collecting data from both campaigns (using analytics tools like Google Analytics or Mailchimp to track engagement and conversions). Thereafter, analyze the performance metrics side by side (using data comparison tools like Tableau or Excel) to identify patterns and correlations.

In business, A/B testing and randomized trials work like the Co-Twin Method by comparing two similar strategies to see which works better, while keeping other factors constant.

In Atomic Scaling, this concept translates to comparing different growth strategies to identify the most effective one. By analyzing similar scaling attempts, businesses can pinpoint successful practices and replicate them.

Comparison with 3P3R: Cotwin uses comparison (like A/B testing), while 3P3R applies a unified approach toward steady progress. Where Cotwin contrasts two efforts, 3P3R scales one refined process at a time, evolving it through results.

“The art and science of predicting the future is the biggest superpower of atomic scalers.” Ludovic Bodin

ETAAS method

The ETAAS (Electrothermal Atomic Absorption Spectrometry) Method in business works like fine-tuning a strategy by focusing on precise, granular data rather than relying on broad estimations. Imagine you're optimizing a marketing campaign, not just by looking at overall sales but by analyzing specific customer behaviors (using data analytics tools like Tableau or Power BI to drill down into detailed metrics). Just as ETAAS detects minute traces of metal with high accuracy, this method involves breaking down your data into small, meaningful parts (like segmenting customer demographics or tracking individual ad performance) to make targeted adjustments.

“Being systematic across your strategies, including on the allocation part, is essential. Increase fairly slow, but decrease very fast when necessary.” Ludovic Bodin

In Atomic Scaling, the idea is to make small, precise adjustments rather than broad, imprecise changes, much like measuring minute elements accurately via ETAAS.

Comparison with 3P3R: ETAAS focuses on precision at a granular level. 3P3R is broader, activating a motivated team to build predictable and scalable systems. Both aim for clarity — but ETAAS is microscopic while 3P3R is strategic.

Example: ETAAS fine-tunes ROI down to customer segments. 3P3R aligns people, predicts market changes, and tracks which strategy boosts long-term retention.

Zoutendijk method

The Zoutendijk Method in business works like tackling a problem that doesn’t have a clear or simple solution by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable parts. You begin by identifying the key variables involved (using cost analysis tools like Excel or specialized software such as MATLAB). Consequently, break the problem into smaller sub-problems, each addressing one variable at a time. Optimize each part independently (using optimization algorithms like linear programming) to find the best possible solution for that element. Finally, combine the results to create a comprehensive, optimized strategy.

In a study published in Buildings journal, researchers used the Zoutendijk Method to optimize energy use in a smart building community, cutting peak demand by 53% and balancing energy consumption better.

Atomic Scaling shares this focus on optimization by breaking down complex scaling challenges into manageable steps, ensuring that growth strategies are not just ambitious but also realistic and achievable.

Comparison with 3P3R: Zoutendijk solves nonlinear problems through optimization, piece by piece. 3P3R embraces complexity too, but relies on activating teams, using foresight, and structuring effort to generate momentum.

“To become an atomic scaler, you must focus on being systematic — clearly defining what you’re good at and continuously tuning your approach.” Ludovic Bodin

Buteco method

The Buteco Method in business works like plotting the most efficient route to achieve a goal, focusing on minimizing effort and maximizing efficiency. Commence by mapping out the entire workflow (using process mapping tools like Lucidchart or Miro), identifying each step from start to finish. Analyze where resources are being underutilized or where bottlenecks occur (applying Lean Six Sigma principles to spot inefficiencies). Then, adjust the steps to create a more direct, streamlined path to your goal, cutting out redundant tasks or unnecessary delays.

Atomic Scaling applies a similar principle by analyzing small, impactful moves that collectively result in significant growth, rather than overwhelming systems with sudden, large-scale changes.

Comparison with 3P3R: Buteco aims to make systems lean and efficient — removing unnecessary effort. 3P3R focuses on growing small wins into scalable momentum. One streamlines the path, the other builds and scales it.

Example: Buteco may cut out five unnecessary steps in a delivery workflow. 3P3R would rally a small team, forecast delivery needs, and iterate the process until revenue and retention improve.

Vianello method

The Vianello Method in business works like maintaining balance on a tightrope — moving forward carefully to ensure small changes don’t disrupt the entire system. The goal is to make progress while keeping everything stable. Start by identifying critical factors that could impact the project (using risk assessment tools like RiskWatch or SWOT analysis). Continuously monitor these variables (applying project tracking tools like Monday.com or Jira) to detect any deviations early. Make small, calculated adjustments when needed to keep the project on course without overcorrecting.

Atomic Scaling aligns with this notion by promoting stability through gradual scaling efforts. Instead of making radical changes that may disrupt operations, Atomic Scaling fosters steady, sustainable growth.

Comparison with 3P3R: Vianello ensures balance and stability in every move. 3P3R creates stable progress through rhythm: plan, perform, repeat. Where Vianello is cautious and precise, 3P3R is consistent and scalable.

Example: Vianello might minimize risk in scaling operations. 3P3R would empower a team to forecast impact, roll out steps in a playbook, and repeat what's driving real retention.

Kenzai method

The Kenzai Method in business works like a balanced workout routine, where you combine different exercises to achieve overall fitness rather than just focusing on one muscle group. Initiate by identifying key areas that need improvement (using SWOT analysis to pinpoint strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats). Then, create a comprehensive plan that balances these elements (using balanced scorecard frameworks to align objectives across departments). Regularly assess progress in each area (using performance tracking tools like OKRs or KPIs) to ensure balanced growth.

United Parcel Service (UPS) used the Balanced Scorecard to streamline operations, resulting in a 20% increase in delivery efficiency and a 15% boost in customer satisfaction.

Similarly, Atomic Scaling does not rely on a single tactic but combines various growth strategies, focusing on adaptability and resilience. This holistic approach ensures that growth is balanced and sustainable over time.

Comparison with 3P3R: Kenzai uses balance across departments to drive growth. 3P3R applies a sequence — starting from a small team and scaling efforts through strategy and reflection. Kenzai is holistic; 3P3R is stepwise and compound.

“The first principle of atomic scaling is to keep the team as small as possible for as long as possible while pursuing exponential growth.” Ludovic Bodin

Conclusion

Atomic Scaling holds great potential for businesses aiming for sustainable and structured growth. However, its alignment with algotrading is pretty wild.

“Algo trading, in particular, is the purest form of being an atomic scaler. It’s literally you and the market, some capital, and you barely need customers or providers, but you can scale to tens of millions, hundreds of millions, or billions of dollars very quickly.” Ludovic Bodin

Interested in checking out a platform that has mastered 3P3R in terms of algo trading?

Head on over to MC² Finance, and trade and swap with intent across chains with a single click (or just follow top traders’ smart portfolios).

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