Validation coach prompt
A strong validation agent (Play Matrix, Four Boxes, pre-commit number) that still had a silent-assumption hole and soft REAL RISK. Frankey said repair; after approval, critical and high issues went to zero.
- Crit Silent assumptions when inputs missing
- High REAL RISK free-text → soft-pedaled WTP trap
- High Play Matrix not coupled to offer levers
- Med No founder commitment check
What actually broke (and what closed it)
Silent assumptions
Agent could invent buyer, price, or assets and keep going. Founder never saw what was made up: false “pass” signals. Patch: mandatory INPUT AUDIT as the first output section; every ASSUMPTION → listed with risk.
Willingness-to-pay soft-pedal
REAL RISK was free text. Agents buried the “free proves engagement, not payment” trap. Patch: rigid Trap / Why a pass would be a lie / Hardening structure, impossible to skip.
Weak offer after a good play
Play Matrix was excellent; offer sharpening was optional flavor. Patch: VALUE EQUATION LEVERS PULLED must feed the OFFER every run.
Deliverable after approve:
Validation_Coach_Prompt_v1.1_OPTIMIZED.md.
Full pre/post reports in
portfolio/samples/validation-coach-prompt/