I hear it over and over again, “I have this great idea for…, now what?”
Really that’s the most difficult part for people is developing a plan, a strategy, to go from idea to implementation. Many are looking for a “connect the dots” type system that will show them step 1, step 2, step 3 and now your done. The problem is there really isnt a step by step guide that can be applied to taking an idea to implementation and success.
However there are two steps you should be sure not to skip.
Step 2 Is All About Research
This is the most critical part of developing your business idea. You need to do in depth research into your idea. Some things you should be looking for. Is there a market for my idea? Are there any other companies doing the same thing? Are those companies successful? If there are companies doing the same thing where are they deficient. If there are not companies doing the same thing, why not? Will I outsource, produce, provide, contribute to the development of my product or idea? If so in what ways? If not who will do it for you?
Now the list could continue for another 100 questions, however the point is to research, research, research, the idea that you have in order to best formulate a plan to move forward. Knowing your market and your competition will be essential to your success.
Step 3 Is All About Feedback
I think this is an area that many tend to shy away from. Sharing your ideas with those around you can be one of the best ways to gather instant feedback. Having done your research you will be able to provide an overall view of what it is your offering and why it’s better than what’s out there. The other thing you will be doing in this step is honing your sales presentation. If you can’t clearly and succinctly explain your ideas and their benefits to those around you then you need to focus on creating that presentation. You should be able to explain what it is simply and quickly and then generate some feedback. In the feedback stage take everything you hear and filter it accordingly. Having presented your ideas to more than a couple people there may start to develop a pattern of whether people like the idea or not. In addition some ideas may surface on how you could change or tweak your product to improve it.
Again while there is no magic formula for taking your idea to implementation you should never forgo the research and feedback phase in the process. The time you spend up front doing this can save you a lot of headaches and missteps further down the path.
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