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Startup Tip: Focus First On A Problem, Not A Solution

December 10, 2009 | 3 Comments

Some aspiring entrepreneurs come up with what they believe to be a great solution to a problem and spend the bulk of their energy and efforts on that solution. While that approach seems reasonable, it puts you at a disadvantage. It’s better to first focus on a problem and not on a solution. Here’s why:

For a bit more on this topic – from the perspective of an angel investor – I recommend you read a post from Dave McClure – Your SOLUTION is not my PROBLEM.

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  • http://ratewindow.com Matt Dunlap

    I agree BUT…

    I’ve noticed many problems are fabricated in order to create a solution. Stay up late any night and you’ll see what I’m talking about. Infomercials have been using this strategy for a long time, as with other business and IMO government. Make a problem, then solve it.

    There is an infomercial that I saw that made putting toothpaste on your toothbrush look almost impossible. the people would try but it would end up all over the sink and people and just made a huge mess. There solution was this thing you stuck the toothpaste it and it dispensed the paste onto the brush, no hassle, no fuss… it solved a problem.

  • http://www.rosskimbarovsky.com Ross

    Matt – there are obvious differences between real problems and fabricated problems. While it’s possible that late night infomercials might create some demand for silly products by inventing a problem that doesn’t exist, it’s far more difficult to do so in the technology space. Companies have certainly tried – but without a lot of success.

  • Pingback: To Succeed, Don’t Obsess About Reasons You Might Fail | rosskimbarovsky.com

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