How do I find out if a good idea is actually a good idea?
I have a (presumably) great idea for a business. My question is, how do I find out if the idea is actually great? Nobody (or very, very few) is doing the business I'm thinking of, and I can't find a way to actually tell if it has success potential. I'm from Eastern Europe, and my idea mainly applies to other countries. Asking on the internet will just put the idea out there. Is there a way to test such an idea without jumping in it and potentially wasting a lot of money for nothing (if that is the case)?
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You need to ask some potential customers if they'd find it valuable. You'll see from their reaction whether it is really a good idea or not. Also, bear in mind that ideas are generally worthless, it is the execution that creates the value. – Steve Jones 11 years ago
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The idea alone is not that valuable, I know. I am just trying to find out if it's worth putting the time, effort and money into making it a business. And I was curious if there is a way of doing this. – Raz 11 years ago
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If the idea applies to other countries, couldn't you check in other countries about it? I've brought in ideas from other countries, knowing that it would work because it's been tried and tested elsewhere and would be easily cloned in my own country. – Muz 11 years ago
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The only way to know for sure is to try it. As mentioned above, if you can get some feedback from potential customers, that can help you decide. – Steve Jones 11 years ago
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Or help some one do it before he does it, its a double-edge blade. – Prix 11 years ago
2 Answers
Get someone to pay for it. You will have to put it out there sooner or later.
A business without sales is a hobby. If lots of people like what you have, but aren't willing to pay for it then you have a good hobby. If lots of people pay you have a good business (assuming you can make money).
Maybe you can launch some beta-version of your idea in order to test it. Implement it partly and see the feedback. Of course nowadays ideas are stolen very often, so maybe consulting is not so helpful.
A lot of people has partners for their startups. Maybe you should find the one who you trust. It's better to discuss ideas with someone else, who can give you recommendations.
Good luck!
