forbes.com
Why 'Boring' Products Are The Smartest Place To Start For Startups
This article explains why focusing on solving existing problems with 'boring' products is a smarter approach for startups than creating entirely new products, highlighting advantages in market validation, development speed, and distribution.
- What are the key advantages of focusing on solving existing problems instead of creating entirely new products for startups?
- Many successful companies prioritized solving existing problems rather than creating entirely new products. Focusing on improving existing solutions allows for faster market validation and iteration, reducing the challenges of simultaneously inventing, educating, and monetizing a novel product.
- How does the approach of developing 'boring' products impact market validation, product development timelines, and distribution strategies?
- The article highlights that 'boring' products, addressing known market needs, offer several advantages. These include easier validation through user feedback, faster time to market due to simplified development, and established distribution channels within existing industries.
- What are the potential long-term implications for startups that prioritize solving existing problems initially, and how does this strategy influence their capacity for future innovation and growth?
- By initially focusing on a 'boring' product, startups can build a solid foundation of traction, customer trust, and financial resources. This strong base then enables them to pursue more ambitious, novel ventures later, mitigating early-stage risks and uncertainties.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames "boring" products positively, emphasizing their advantages in terms of validation, ease of shipping, distribution, and scalability. The headline and introduction immediately establish this positive framing, potentially influencing reader perception to favor this approach over others. The use of words like "smartest" and "best" reinforces this positive framing.
Language Bias
The article uses loaded language such as "best," "smartest," and "boring." While "boring" is used ironically, it still carries a negative connotation. More neutral alternatives could be "conventional," "established," or "practical." The repeated positive framing of "boring" products may subtly influence the reader's perception.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on the advantages of building "boring" products and doesn't explore potential downsides or counterarguments. It omits discussion of situations where novelty might be crucial for market disruption or creating entirely new markets. While acknowledging limitations of scope is mentioned as a guideline, the article's narrow focus could limit reader understanding of the full spectrum of product development strategies.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by framing the choice as solely between "novel" and "boring" products. Many successful products blend novelty and practicality. The article does not explore this middle ground.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article emphasizes the importance of focusing on solving real problems with practical solutions, leading to the development of sustainable and successful businesses that contribute to economic growth and job creation. Focusing on solving existing problems rather than solely on novelty reduces risks and allows for faster iteration and market entry, leading to more efficient resource allocation and economic viability.