3 ms·
eg problem = persistent storage idea 1 = reel to reel tape idea 2 = self contained cassettes idea 3 = hard disks idea 4 = floppy disks idea 5 = flash based
by cubicle67 15y ago
eg problem = persistent storage
idea 1 = reel to reel tape
idea 2 = self contained cassettes
idea 3 = hard disks
idea 4 = floppy disks
idea 5 = flash based drives
If you concentrate on the problem (we build the most reliable/fastest/cheapest devices for persistent storage) instead of the idea (we build the most reliable/fastest/cheapest tape drives) then you're less likely to be screwed when the market or technology changes
- glimcat 15y agoUnless your problem is "we solve epicycles" - neither is going to insulate you from obsolescence. The benefit to targeting a "problem" is that you have a preexisting need. An "idea" with no existing "problem" may require several years of extra lead-in where you are struggling to get people to understand what you do and why it should matter to them. It can work, but the ratios are less favorable for a VC-style investment which looks for fast turnaround with minimal risk and orders-of-magnitude payoff.