Module 4/5 25 min
Close the gap with the 6B portfolio
Step 1 / 2·The six 6B levers
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Learning objectives — after this module you will:
- Grasp the 6 levers for closing the capability gap
- Know the criteria for choosing build vs buy vs borrow
- Design an integrated action portfolio for a specific gap
Learn ~8 min
The six 6B levers
Understand each lever and when to use it.
The 6B action portfolio
| Lever | What it is | Use when |
|---|---|---|
| BUILD | Internal training, reskill, upskill | Skill close to existing; need internal knowledge; have time (6–24 months) |
| BUY | Hire from the market | Need it fast; skill too far from current; the market has supply |
| BORROW | Outsource, contractors, partners | Temporary/fluctuating need; rare skill you don't need to keep long-term |
| BOT | Automation to replace part of the work | High-volume repetitive work; free up people for high-value work |
| BIND | Retain those holding key capabilities | Level 4–5 people in a scarce skill; SPOF risk |
| BOUNCE | Redeploy / responsibly let go | Declining skill that can't be reskilled; do it humanely and lawfully |
Never just one B
A big gap always needs a MIX: e.g., automation-engineer gap of −6 → buy 2 strong people as a nucleus (fast), build 4 from existing maintenance engineers (durable), borrow a consulting expert during design (shave the peak), bind the current lead engineer (keep the base). That's an action portfolio.
Key takeaway: 6B: Build, Buy, Borrow, Bot, Bind, Bounce — a big gap needs a mix, not a single lever.