It does work in real life, if done correctly, for the right products/customers. You can give a deep discount (50% or whatever), you can also promise to return t

It does work in real life, if done correctly, for the right products/customers. You can give a deep discount (50% or whatever), you can also promise to return their money back if you don't deliver by a certain date etc. In way, isn't that how Kickstarter works? This is a great way to check if there is a paying market for your idea.