🌟 Identify an Opportunity
✅ What this stage is about
You're here because you've got an exciting idea — and that’s a brilliant place to start. This stage helps you shape that idea into something even more valuable by exploring who it helps, how big the need is, and why now is the right time to act.
This is where momentum begins. You’re not just dreaming — you’re building something that matters.
✨ This is your launchpad. Let’s make sure your idea is pointed at the right challenge — with the right impact.
🎯 What you’ll learn
- How to uncover real-world needs behind your idea
- How to find early signs of market potential
- How to turn “gut feeling” into growing confidence
- Tools to map out your idea’s value
- Ways to stand out in the market
🛠️ Tools and methods
- TAM / SAM / SOM: Explore how many people you could help
- User insight interviews (using “The Mom Test” approach)
- Frustration mapping: Understand where people struggle most
- Competitor snapshot: See how your idea compares and shines
- Stakeholder conversations to bring in fresh perspectives
🚧 Watch-outs (and how to move through them)
- It's easy to build fast — take a moment to aim well
- Friends are great supporters, but not always your customer
- Solutions are exciting — make sure the problem is clear first
- “Similar products” aren’t a bad sign — they prove the need!
🧠 Tips from the field
“Look for where people feel friction — those are the sparks that great products are built on.”— Product designer, IEN network
“Often it’s not about inventing from scratch, but improving what already exists in a way no one else has.”
📚 Helpful links & resources
- The Mom Test book — how to ask better questions
- Customer Persona Template →
- Market Context Enquiry Tool →
- Viability Sprint Overview →
- 🔗 Download: Opportunity Mapping Worksheet (.docx)
✍️ Quick self-check — Is this opportunity ready to grow?
Can I describe a specific group who would love this?
Have they already tried solving this on their own?
Do I know what’s still missing for them?
Is there room in the market for a fresh approach?
Would I be excited to pay for this if I were in their shoes?
✅ If you're ticking off most of these, you're on a strong path forward.
🖼️ Visual concept: The Opportunity Lens
🖼️ Great ideas often live in that “emerging” or “sweet spot” space. Let's find it.