Joining a fast paced project can feel overwhelming, but it also creates a rare moment where fresh eyes see what others no longer notice. In his newest article for Medical Product Outsourcing, StarFish Medical Project Engineer Nigel Syrotuck introduces what he calls the Zero Momentum Advantage.

The concept highlights how new team members are uniquely positioned to question assumptions, identify gaps, and uncover overlooked details. This perspective is temporary, but when used intentionally it can strengthen projects and support better decision making.

In the article, Syrotuck reflects on the instinct many people have when entering a fast moving team. The natural reaction is to blend in quickly and avoid disrupting established workflows. Yet this rush to catch up can cause new contributors to miss their opportunity to identify issues that long standing team members may no longer question. Instead, Syrotuck encourages a balanced approach where new members learn the project while also supporting it with fresh observations.

The piece outlines how small questions or clarifications can reveal alignment issues or misunderstandings that might otherwise persist. These moments allow teams to adjust early and avoid costly problems later. At the same time, Syrotuck notes the importance of asking questions thoughtfully and choosing when to dig deeper. The Zero Momentum Advantage works best when applied with tact and curiosity.

Syrotuck also emphasizes that this moment does not last. As new team members adapt to project norms, they lose some of the distance that makes their input so valuable. Recognizing this timing helps teams onboard more effectively and encourages new contributors to use their perspective strategically.

Readers can explore the full discussion by visiting the complete MPO article. The piece offers a thoughtful look at how mindset, timing, and communication shape early contributions within high speed projects.