They won't be blinded by results. The Springboks, Uzair Cassiem insists, have a process and they're sticking to it.
That, depending how you look at it, is either deeply comforting or troubling.
Cassiem, who was last week ruled out for the rest of the season with a rib fracture in the clash against Australia, says while results are important the full embrace of their processes is paramount at this stage of the Springbok team's development.
"We put great stuff in place. We believe in the processes, systems and structures. It will reap the rewards. We've only been together for four months. The New Zealand and the Australian teams have been together for years. We are a new team and we are beginning to find our feet.
"It comes down to execution. That is the main thing. We've stepped up a level since last year," said Cassiem.
When asked if he felt their humiliation at the hands of the All Blacks in Albany was just an aberration, Cassiem said: "No, no, no. One shouldn't just look at the scoreboard. One should actually analyse the game. We did. Execution was a big point.
"That is in the past. We don't talk about it. We forgot about it. We don't mention it. We have moved on."
Lots of energy but little synergy
Cassiem has also been required to make a massive step up. His career didn't look like it was going to take off but he, in a roundabout way, found himself in the Cheetahs' setup that marched to the Currie Cup title last year. While the team momentarily basked in the sun, Cassiem's glow lingered.
He got selected on the Springbok end-of-year tour and has been part of the mix since. He has operated in a more elevated role since regular captain Warren Whiteley has had to yield to injury. Although Cassiem's performances were built around grit, grind and energy, he has operated in a backrow that has lacked synergy.
"They made it very clear to me what they want. I did my best to deliver," said the 27-year-old about moving from blindside flank to filling Whiteley's boots at No8.
He admits to being frustrated by the timing of his injury but his number may have been up regardless, given Whiteley's imminent return for the end-of-year tour.
"We aren't that similar," he said about his playing style compared to Whiteley's. "I play towards the ball and I suppose he waits until the ball gets to him.
"I feel good about my job. Playing No8 wasn't uncomfortable. There were a few technical things I had to get right.
"I've always seen myself as a ball player but I've also worked on my stealing ability. Whenever there is a chance of getting a turnover I try and get one.
"My defence is solid, or on par. I don't think I've missed a tackle this season... maybe one or two. I try and apply myself in the game plan."
When fit again, he may, however, require an extra dimension to cement a Bok place.
