Trust Model
Trust is the foundation of all relationships within ScaleBridger's operating model. This document defines how trust is established, maintained, and enforced.
Trust Axiom
ScaleBridger operates on a zero-trust model extended with earned trust tiers. No entity—internal or external—receives trust by default. Trust is a function of verified behavior over time.
Trust Levels
Each level defines specific access rights and verification requirements.
L0 - Public
No trust relationship. Public-facing surfaces only.
- Website
- Public documentation
- Marketing materials
None required
L1 - Prospect
Initial contact established. Qualification in progress.
- Basic inquiry responses
- Qualification materials
- Public pricing
Contact information verified
L2 - Qualified
Meets minimum thresholds. Engagement consideration.
- Detailed proposals
- Technical specifications
- Scope discussions
Business verification, threshold confirmation
L3 - Client
Active engagement. Contracted relationship.
- Full service delivery
- Support channels
- Account management
Contract executed, payment established
L4 - Partner
Extended trust relationship. Strategic alignment.
- Roadmap visibility
- Priority support
- Integration access
Track record, mutual investment
Trust Principles
Governing principles for trust management.
Trust is earned, not assumed
All relationships begin at L0. Progression requires demonstrated commitment.
Trust is specific, not general
Trust in one domain does not automatically extend to others.
Trust is revocable
Violations result in immediate trust level reduction.
Trust requires verification
Claims must be verifiable. Unverifiable claims are treated as false.
Trust Violations
Actions that result in trust level changes.
Misrepresentation of scale or capability
Consequence: Immediate termination of qualification process
Unauthorized disclosure of confidential information
Consequence: Trust level reduction, potential contract termination
Payment defaults or disputes in bad faith
Consequence: Service suspension, trust level reset to L0
Circumventing established channels
Consequence: Warning, followed by trust level reduction
Internal Trust
Internal team members operate under a parallel trust model with role-based access controls. Trust level is a function of role authorization, not personal relationships. Access is granted to roles, not individuals.