◎ Idea Validation
Idea Validation is a Discovery-phase founder capability in the SKILLOS registry (category: original). Cross-references: 4 frameworks, 4 key metrics, 4 templates, 2 case studies, 4 mastery signals. Substrate applicability: 197 countries × 60 verticals × 99 SKILLOS sectors.
🔧 Frameworks
- Kevin Hale / YC Framework
- Tom Bilyeu 60-Minute Method
- Mom Test Protocol
- GO / PIVOT / KILL Decision Tree
📊 Key Metrics
- 10+ organic complaints found in <15 min
- Market size >$1B addressable
- Existing bad-review incumbents
- High search volume for pain
📋 Templates
- Mom Test interview script
- Validation scorecard
- Competitive landscape canvas
- Founder-market fit assessment
💡 Case Studies
Drew Houston validated demand with a 3-minute explainer video before writing production code — the waitlist hit 75,000 signups overnight
Chesky and Gebbia manually photographed hosts' apartments in NYC to improve listing quality — their first $1K in revenue proved willingness-to-pay before any platform investment
Never ask 'would you use this?' — it's worthless. Ask 'how have you tried to solve this before?' and listen for money, time, and emotion spent.
🎯 You've mastered this when…
- Unsolicited referrals during interviews
- Pre-purchases on a mockup or Figma
- People interrupt your pitch ('wait, you can do WHAT?')
- Inbound inquiries after soft launch
Related skills in the Discovery phase
Frequently asked about Idea Validation
What phase of the founder journey does Idea Validation belong to?
It is a Discovery-phase skill in the SKILLOS registry. The seven phases are Foundation, Discovery, Capital, Build, Growth, Revenue, and Scale.
What are the most useful frameworks for Idea Validation?
The four canonical frameworks are: Kevin Hale / YC Framework; Tom Bilyeu 60-Minute Method; Mom Test Protocol; GO / PIVOT / KILL Decision Tree.
How do I know when I have mastered Idea Validation?
Mastery signals include: Unsolicited referrals during interviews; Pre-purchases on a mockup or Figma; People interrupt your pitch ('wait, you can do WHAT?'); Inbound inquiries after soft launch.
Which sectors does this skill apply to?
All 99 SKILLOS sectors — from AI & Machine Learning to Emerging Consumer Technology. The skill applies across every vertical in AJG's substrate of 197 countries and 60 commerce verticals.