Org Design and Headcount Case Template

Name the problem, map the work and check the math from both directions, so you walk into the headcount conversation with a decision your CEO can say yes to.

The fastest way to get a headcount request denied is to open with a job title. "I need two more CSMs" invites one question from your CEO, which is "why?", and most CS leaders answer it with a feeling. If churn is coming from a product that's hard to use or from deals Sales should never have closed, another CSM just means another person absorbing the pain.

This template makes you solve the what before the who. Write the problem in one sentence and mark every possible cause with the evidence behind it. Map the work that makes the problem go away, the function that owns it and how much of it there is, and fill in the title last. Then check the math from both directions: the bottom-up number from your capacity model against a top-down number built from your revenue target and the coverage you choose for each segment, with the gap spelled out by segment. From there you build your own ratio from Finance's fully loaded cost, set hiring triggers from your real lead time, test seven levers before you ask for anyone and sketch your org chart before and after the hire. It ends with a five-part headcount case, including how you'll adapt if the answer is no, and a decision log with signatures. Walk in with a decision. Your CEO has enough decisions to make.

What's included

• Org Design and Headcount Case template in Word, plus a make-a-copy link for Google Docs

• 11 sections: case snapshot, name the problem, the work and its owner before the title, the top-down check and the gap, your ratio, your hiring triggers, check the model before you hire, your structure, your headcount case, reflection, and decision log

• A guide to reading the gap between your top-down and bottom-up numbers, seven levers to test before you hire and an example opener for the conversation

• A step-by-step PDF guide with a made-up example for every section, a three-week plan to get to a decision and the mistakes to avoid

• A Steal This headcount case readiness check

Who it's for

CS leaders heading into annual planning, asking for headcount, choosing between a CSM and an account manager, or redesigning the team after a reorg.

How it works

Digital download. Your files are ready right after checkout. Open the Word file, or use the link included with your download to make your own copy in Google Docs. No physical item will be shipped.

Bundle and save

This template is part of the Hiring and Team Bundle: 9 templates for $89, about half the price of buying them one at a time. Want everything? The Complete Architect Collection has every template in the collection for $299.