Rob Sandberg
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gameproductionalchemist.substack.com
Rob Sandberg
@gameproductionalchemist.substack.com
Welcome to the laboratory of the Game Production Alchemist! Prepare to encounter unconventional perspectives on game production and leadership.

https://gameproductionalchemist.substack.com/
Probabilistic thinking reshapes game dev forecasting. Instead of fixed dates, use probabilities to assess risks and model outcomes. This mindset prepares teams for uncertainty and builds confidence in delivery timelines. Embrace flexibility for more intelligent decisions. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
February 10, 2025 at 3:30 PM
Monte Carlo simulations are never perfect, but their value lies in uncovering why. Comparing forecasts to reality refines your models, improves accuracy, and builds confidence. For LiveOps, it’s about using data to guide smarter decisions and deliver better results. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
February 6, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Stop managing people—start managing work. Focus on flow, not blame. Fix bottlenecks, not workers. Want faster delivery and better predictability? Let’s talk. Read more here: https://buff.ly/40KZvOz #GameDev #LiveOps
February 5, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Level up your LiveOps with data-driven workflows. Use real-time metrics to forecast delivery, reduce risks, and improve team harmony. Prioritising psychological safety and value realisation boosts predictability and ensures consistent results for players. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
February 4, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Delays in delivering new features can frustrate players and hurt engagement. Use clear metrics to track progress and identify bottlenecks—forecast timelines with recent performance data to stay proactive. Optimised workflows mean faster updates and happier players. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
February 3, 2025 at 11:40 AM
Probabilistic thinking reshapes LiveOps forecasting. Instead of fixed dates, use probabilities to assess risks and model outcomes. This mindset prepares teams for uncertainty and builds confidence in delivery timelines. Embrace flexibility for more intelligent decisions. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
January 23, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Measuring team speed is insufficient; focus on how quickly business value reaches players. Use delivery metrics to uncover delays, align priorities, and optimise flow. In LiveOps, faster value delivery strengthens engagement and player satisfaction. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
January 21, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Pull systems optimise LiveOps by reducing waste and preventing bottlenecks. Work starts only when there’s capacity, keeping workflows smooth and flexible. Focus on just-in-time prioritisation and manageable batches to maximise value delivery without overloading teams. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
January 20, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Wearing my innie shirt in anticipation of tonight's season primer. #severance #innie
January 17, 2025 at 10:56 AM
Status reports don’t have to be a chore. When done right, they’re your secret weapon for smoother projects, clearer communication, and smarter decisions. Learn how to make them quick, purposeful, and effective with my proven tips and a simple, no-fluff template. https://buff.ly/4jcYFCZ #gamedev
January 17, 2025 at 9:15 AM
While intuition has its place, empirical data drives consistent results. Empower your teams with actionable insights from real-world metrics to refine workflows and make better decisions. In LiveOps, data-backed choices mean faster delivery and more substantial outcomes. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
January 16, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Making work visible is a game changer for LiveOps. Map workflows, set WIP limits, and track progress to reveal bottlenecks and align priorities. Use tools like Kanban to focus on flow and transparency. Improved visibility means faster, smoother delivery for players. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
January 14, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Post-release data boosts revenue, but leveraging your team’s development metrics can unlock faster delivery. Track workflow trends, identify bottlenecks, and adapt processes. LiveOps success is about improving both product and production. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
January 13, 2025 at 8:00 AM
How well do you know the agreements producers handle daily? Contracts aren’t flashy, but they’re critical. Missteps can mean delays, penalties, or chaos. Learn the key legal docs every producer should know to minimise risks, track milestones & manage expectations. https://buff.ly/4ja9q8U#gamedev
January 10, 2025 at 10:00 AM
You can’t predict everything perfectly, but past results can reveal a range of delivery dates and their probabilities. In LiveOps, this approach helps manage uncertainty and plan smarter. Use data to drive decisions and improve outcomes. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
January 9, 2025 at 8:00 AM
How do you maintain focus on the “why” behind every decision? Impact mapping connects goals, actions, and deliverables to ensure alignment, avoid wasted effort, and prioritise what truly matters. Elevate your live service game strategy. https://buff.ly/4gM7UYZ #GameDev
January 8, 2025 at 9:35 AM
A realistic view of your organisation is essential for LiveOps success. Honest assessments and actionable metrics ensure transparency and drive better decisions. Clarity at every level leads to more substantial outcomes and sustainable growth. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
January 7, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Limiting WIP isn’t just about doing less—it’s about finishing more. By reducing multitasking and managing item age, teams boost predictability, complete work faster, and improve collaboration. In LiveOps, this means delivering value sooner without burnout. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
January 6, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Is your Live Ops team leaking value? Scaling from a small team to managing live services at scale brings challenges—approval layers, more coordination, and unplanned work. Learn how to plug these leaks: https://bit.ly/3PmO4rq #gamedev #liveops
January 3, 2025 at 12:02 PM
Effective risk management in LiveOps starts with understanding your organisation’s current state. Dig into metrics, uncover inefficiencies, and build actionable strategies. A realistic perspective is the most potent tool for sustainable growth and success. #LiveOps #gamedev #indiedev
January 2, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Well, I got to think I was behind the velvet ropes for one day.

I am...

"The Last of the Invite Codes"
February 7, 2024 at 12:12 PM