"Find real live people who are potential customers and talk to them." Yes, do this. Find 10 actual real-world users, and talk to each of them for 30 minutes. I

"Find real live people who are potential customers and talk to them." Yes, do this. Find 10 actual real-world users, and talk to each of them for 30 minutes. If you need some good tips on finding users, convincing them to talk to you, etc., see Steve Blank's "Four Steps to the Epiphany". At the very worst, this will still be less stressful than sales or political canvassing, because you're only asking people for their opinions (which they love to share) and not their money (which they prefer to keep). You'll probably need a list of at least 100 users before you find 10 who will talk to you. I _guarantee_ this will open your eyes, and save you months of wasted effort. Been there, done that.