ValidationEmerging Pattern

Build a services business around your product when the market isn't ready, then spin out the product when timing aligns

Q: How many founders have validated "build a services business around your product when the market isn't ready, then spin out the product when timing aligns"?

1 founder has proven this pattern works. Examples include Mark Magnuson (Bildr).

If the market isn't ready for your product vision, don't abandon it. Instead, build a services business that uses early versions of the tool to serve clients. This validates the product with real use cases, generates revenue to sustain development, and creates a customer base ready for the product launch.

When to use

When you have a product vision but the market or category doesn't exist yet

Don't do this

Waiting for the market to be ready while burning through savings or giving up entirely

1 Founder Who Did This

Bildrby Mark Magnuson

Started building no-code tools in 2006 but investors weren't interested. Built a services business using early Bildr versions for 15 years before spinning out the product company in 2020

Result:Launched with a battle-tested product, existing team, and customer relationships built over 15 years

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