← Lucid Software Interview Insights
The solar company wrapper threw me off more than it should have.
Clarify the goal of the pilot (e.g., validate demand, test technology, or prove unit economics) and define the pilot region's scope. Then use a top-down estimate based on population density and expected market share to determine the number of towers needed, while considering coverage requirements and cost constraints.
Pro tip: Acknowledge that the exact number is less important than the logic; show you can make reasonable assumptions and adjust based on new information. Also, mention that you'd start with a minimal viable footprint and scale based on data.
Ask questions to understand the pilot's goals (e.g., technical validation, customer acquisition, revenue targets) and constraints (budget, timeline, regulatory). This ensures your estimate aligns with business priorities.
Specify the geographic area (e.g., a city, county, or rural area) and its characteristics: population, area size, density, and existing competition. This sets the scope for the calculation.
Determine the number of towers required to cover the area based on tower range (e.g., urban vs. rural) and capacity based on expected subscribers and data usage. Use industry benchmarks for tower coverage radius and capacity.
Divide the total area by the coverage area per tower, then adjust for capacity and overlap. Consider factors like terrain, building density, and quality-of-service targets.
Validate the estimate against cost, timeline, and strategic fit. Be prepared to adjust assumptions and discuss trade-offs (e.g., fewer towers with lower coverage vs. more towers for better service).
AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.