STEP 1 / 8

Validate your idea

Identify a specific problem and the people looking for a solution.

Your outcome for this step

A target customer, a problem and feedback from potential customers.

Put it into practice

01
Write: “I help [who] achieve [outcome] with [offer].” Pick one initial audience.
02
Ask people in that audience how they work today, what gets in their way and what they already pay for.
03
Compare these answers with existing offers. Choose one practical difference to test; search interest is not buying intent.

A freelancer wants to help tradespeople manage quote enquiries. She first learns about their process and difficulties before suggesting software.

Avoid at this stage

A full website and multiple subscriptions before clarifying demand. Start with a document and conversations.

Market research

Explore search interest by topic, area and period. Combine this signal with conversations with real customers.

Forms

Collect survey responses or enquiries. Check features, limits and which data you collect.

France · plan your business

Resources for planning a business, researching a market and finding support.

Editorial pathway dated September 23, 2026. French procedures link to official organizations; adapt them to your situation.