Is your solution in search of a problem?

Consider these examples:

  1. Apple Watch: How many truly need it as a life necessity?
  2. Hydro Flask: Why spend over $70 on a water bottle?
  3. Peloton: Post-COVID, why not exercise outdoors?

I own two of these, so this isn’t a critique of owners. However, if your solution is seeking a problem, reconsider your strategy unless backed by a strong brand or ecosystem.

I use the CLIPS framework to validate problems:

  • Challenge: We start by listening closely to challenges faced by our ideal customers.
  • Learn: We do a deep dive into these challenges, learning as much as possible, and also considering various perspectives.
  • Ideate: We employ the Third-Third method1 for solution brainstorming.
  • Prototype: We test solutions and collect feedback from users, clients, and developers.
  • Scale: Finally, we identify the most impactful solutions to scale.

Before envisioning solutions, first ask: What problem does it solve?

1. The Third-Third was first introduced by Tim Hurson in his book, Think Better: An Innovator’s Guide to Productive Thinking.