Module 07 of 9

Test independent value

Run a small opportunity experiment without reckless investment or pretending demand exists.

35–50 minutesFoundationReviewed 2026-08-16
Learning outcomes
  • Frame a testable problem
  • Set cost and stop limits
  • Collect demand evidence
fact

A business idea is not demand

Interest, praise and online attention are weaker evidence than a deposit, purchase, signed trial, referral or repeated use. Test the problem before building a large solution.

method

Define a bounded experiment

Name a specific person, costly problem, small useful outcome, test channel, maximum spend, time limit and evidence threshold. Do not buy significant stock or create debt for an unproven offer.

  • One audience
  • One problem
  • One outcome
  • One channel
  • One evidence threshold
  • A stop date
experiment

Ask for a real commitment

Offer the smallest honest version to five suitable people. Ask for a proportionate commitment: a paid pilot, scheduled trial or introduction. Record refusals and reasons without arguing.

Evidence to produce

A completed opportunity experiment record.

Keep personal details private. Print it or store it in a location you control.

Source trailInternational Labour Organization: Core skills for the future of jobsFramework for transferable capabilities and changing work.