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The 3 Pre-Launch Fits in the 7-Fit Framework for Startups

Updated: Apr 9

As a startup, it can be overwhelming to navigate the complexities of the business world. One of the most critical aspects of achieving success is identifying the right fit between your product and the market. That's where the 7-Fit Framework comes in - a comprehensive system for startups to assess their maturity level and identify gaps in their strategy. In this article, we'll dive into the three pre-launch fits - inspired by the Design Thinking - in the framework and how they can help set you up for success.


Customer-Problem Fit: Addressing Pain Points


The first fit on the list is customer-problem fit, which involves identifying a specific pain point experienced by your target audience. It's essential to do thorough research to understand your customer's needs, challenges, and frustrations. This knowledge will help you develop a product that provides a solution to their problems.













To achieve customer-problem fit, you must answer questions like:

  • Who is your ideal customer?

  • What are their pain points?

  • How can your product solve their problems?


By answering these questions, you can create a product that addresses your customer's needs and differentiates you from competitors.


Problem-Solution Fit: Creating Value


The second pre-launch fit is problem-solution fit. Once you've identified your customer's pain points, you need to develop a solution that solves their problems. Your product must create value for your customers and offer a unique advantage over your competition.


To achieve problem-solution fit, you must answer questions like:

  • What is your unique value proposition?

  • How does your product solve your customer's problems?

  • How does your product compare to your competition?


By answering these questions, you can ensure that your product creates value for your customers and solves their problems in a way that sets you apart from your competition.



Customer-Solution Fit: Validating Your Idea


The third pre-launch fit is customer-solution fit. Once you've developed your product, you need to validate your idea and make sure it's something your customers want. This step involves getting feedback from your target audience and making adjustments to your product based on their input.


To achieve customer-solution fit, you must answer questions like:

  • How can you get feedback from your target audience?

  • What changes can you make to your product based on their feedback?

  • How can you use this feedback to refine your product?


By answering these questions, you can validate your idea and ensure that your product meets your customer's needs.


A Quick Recap: Why are 3 Pre-Launch Fits Crucial For Any Early-Stage Startup?


Identifying the right fit between your product and the market is critical to your startup's success. By focusing on the three pre-launch fits - customer-problem fit, problem-solution fit, and customer-solution fit - you can set yourself up for success and increase your chances of achieving product-market fit. With the 7-Fit Framework, you have a comprehensive system to assess your startup's maturity level and identify gaps in your strategy. By following these steps and continuing to refine your product based on feedback, you can unlock the success your startup deserves.


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