[jhayward]

> it can be hard to do a step by step change that is (a) fair (...) and (b) works for every step

Yes. This is what separates the pros from the not-pros in major systems design and operation. The transition plan is the major key to plan, not the algorithm (which plays the role of Shiny Object in this case).

It is lots harder, lots, to get smoothly from A to B than to simply big-bang B. It takes enormous attention to detail and thinking through of every angle, and when done well is a thing of wonder.

I think in this case your team was not well served by how it was tasked.

Thanks again for responding, and for your team's efforts in the design.