Rapid Prototyping
Build minimal representations to learn fast and cheap.
Explanation
Instead of trying to build a perfect solution from the start, create the simplest version that can test your most critical assumptions. The goal is to learn quickly and cheaply whether you're on the right track. This approach, from design thinking and lean startup methodology, recognizes that most initial ideas are wrong—prototypes help you discover this before you've invested too much time and money.
Real-World Example
Zappos: No inventory, bought shoes from stores after orders came in. Tested if people would buy shoes online. Dropbox: Video of non-existent product got 75k signups overnight. Tested if people wanted it. Your idea: Build with no-code tools first. If no one uses free version, they won't pay for polished version.
How to Apply
Identify riskiest assumption. Build minimum to test it. Use paper, wireframes, no-code tools. Test with 5 users (finds 85% of issues). Iterate based on learning. Only build real thing after validation. Remember: If you're not embarrassed by v1, you launched too late.