In business, DOA stands for “Dead on Arrival”, a term borrowed from medical jargon. It’s often used metaphorically to describe a product, idea, or project that is deemed a failure before it even begins or shortly after its launch.
For example, a new product that fails to meet market demand or a proposal that receives immediate rejection from stakeholders could be considered DOA. This term highlights critical issues such as poor planning, lack of research, or misalignment with consumer needs.
To avoid a DOA situation, businesses should conduct thorough market analysis, test ideas rigorously, and ensure clear communication among teams. Understanding what led to the failure can also provide valuable lessons for future success.