We have all heard the term, “ignorance is bliss”, and when it comes to launching a hardware startup this might just be right. Newcomers to an industry have fresh ideas, new perspectives and innovative ideas. These newcomers are not weighed down by industry norms and the mentality of “it’s always been done this way”. These fresh faces often see opportunities that industry veterans miss.
While newcomers lack preconceived notions, that doesn’t mean they are ill-equipped. Below are three ways to harness those “rookie smarts” and build a successful product.
Seek out stagnate industries
It’s no secret that many big industries need help—for example, healthcare, banking and transportation are all stuck in a rut and are in desperate need of fresh ideas and newcomers with bold visions. You don’t need experience in an industry to start a revolution. Elon Musk is a great example of someone who entered industries where he had little or no experience, yet had a vision of what they could look like and while pursuing his vision, spearheaded major transformation. Step out of your comfort zone and your areas of expertise to bring about radical change.
Listen to people that could be your customers
As startups grow into major corporations, they often take on the mindset of “I know what’s best” and stop listening to their customers. This is a surefire way to alienate customers and push them towards competitors. Many of the young entrepreneurs today understand the importance of truly listening to would-be customers. These types of entrepreneurs are not stuck in their ways and are in fact willing to learn.
Consumers today are radically different than they were 10, 15 and 20 years ago. The culture of how we buy goods, how we procure services and what we expect from businesses has shifted. A hardware startup today needs to be in tune with their customers and willing to modify their vision to meet the needs of these consumers.
Get prototyping
Have an idea? Get prototyping! Lead the way by taking your idea and bringing it to life. Does your prototype need to be fancy, no, does it need to be perfect, no, does it need to convey your idea, yes. We see homemade prototypes built out of traditional household items all the time, and you know what, that works! As long as your homemade prototype can get your message across you are on the right track.
Being an industry newcomer certainly has its benefits. If you are ready to learn, listen and build quickly, your hardware startup can be the change a stagnate industry is in need of.
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3D Innovations is a Product Development Company – from the 3D Design to a fully functional 3D Prototype & Product.
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