What Changed My Mind About Idea Filters

I trusted my network. They told me they would buy. Two contractor cycles and one strained co-founder later, I changed my mind.

What Did Not Change My Mind

The first failed launch. I told myself the timing was off. The second one too. I had reasons. They were excuses.

What Did

An advisor asked me to forward the emails where my network said "yes I would pay $X." I had none. I had verbal yeses. I had no written commitments. The third idea I tested with this filter passed because three customers replied in writing. I built that one. It worked.

The Realization

Verbal yes is just being polite. Written paid-pilot offer is data.

What I Do Differently Now

• Three written paid-pilot offers required before any contractor brief.
• Outside reviewer required.
• Filter on paper before invoices.