What if my startup concept is not new?


4

After having worked on my startup concept for few weeks I realised that some form of the same product as we are planning is already in the market. We do believe that we can do it better and bring more value to the concept.

How feasible will it be to pursue such a concept?

Strategy Long Term Strategies

asked Jun 30 '11 at 05:32
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Vishal
73 points
Top digital marketing agency for SEO, content marketing, and PR: Demand Roll

3 Answers


4

If a product idea does not have any competition it raises a red flag for me as to whether there is actually a market for the product/idea, or if that product can be profitable. Competition is good and makes the products better.

answered Jun 30 '11 at 05:35
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Tom Harrigan
373 points
  • yes, but there is always a risk of being branded as just another clone of an existing product. i think that's my biggest risk – Vishal 12 years ago

3

Investors will want to know there is competition. If no one else is doing it is it because it's so new or because it's a terrible idea?

What large companies exist that were first in their space? Especially when it comes to tech which is so volatile. Make sure you have your unique perspective and pitch and go to it.

answered Jun 30 '11 at 10:02
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Ryan Elkins I Actionable
894 points

1

It will be harder to find investors, but that doesn't mean you can't grow it organically, use cashflow for leverage, and have it funded (possibly via debt rather than equity financing) if needed.

The old adage "success is 10% inspiration and 90% perspiration" applies here.

answered Jun 30 '11 at 05:34
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Alphadogg
1,383 points
  • I like the adage. Thanks for the advice. – Vishal 12 years ago
  • Your problem will be that of differentiation from your competitors. Depending on your product, doing it "better" isn't visible/measurable either inside or outside your company. I highly recommend the book "Blue Ocean Strategy". – Alphadogg 12 years ago

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