when is a problem a problem?
Let me ask you a philosophical question.
when is a problem a problem (that needs to be solved? )
is a problem for a customer a problem if he doesn't even recognize it as a problem?
i'm currently working on a product for startup founders that will help you to formulate your early theses and help you to check them out.
i realized as a problem that many founders build too much product before they even have a problem / solution fit.
And my problem interviews have shown that they are not aware of it at all. they think that only a polished product will be successful. they don't question their early theses at all.
would you now invest in education to make your problem clear to founders?
i think it's difficult. i'm now trying to solve a problem in the environment that you're aware of in order to show the real problem step by step.
first and foremost wanted to share my thoughts. and get your input.
The problem with investing in education of a problem is the Cost To Acquire the customers is a lot higher which drives the prices up to counter this and also there is a probability that they may not see this as a problem as the current workaround is a viable option (Why would I spend $x when I currently handle this with x amount of work instead?).
If people are building too much product then maybe the problem there is mindset rather than a physical problem (I would look daft, foolish or incompetent if I don't have at least these things) or they are looking at too broad an audience and would need to niche further (E.g. Looking at start-ups building a SaaS rather than looking at Start-ups building a SaaS that is targeting contractors who provide small consultancy towards design for up to a couple of weeks at a time).
So I think I understand what you mean. But a founder is most of the time cash-strapped and wants to spend as little as possible. How would you convince them to spend on a problem they don't think they have ?
I think in this case a Content marketing would be the best solution to convince people to buy your product. It is obvious that PROBLEM of finding problem / solution fit will exist for the next centuries.
Some people even get to depression because of it, so no need to hesitate, that people will not spend money once you have a working solution to this problem. All you need is to show that your product is a working solution.
Klaus Breyer, I am also trying to find solutions for this problem, if you want to discuss, feel free to contact me.
this is the question. and my current challenge. I need to find a problem he is aware of, I can takle - to help him suceed on the long term.
so like consulting or coaching ?
no, with a product.