A Glimpse into

the broader 100

tasks playbook
by Martin Bell.

How to Master the

IDEATION
PROCESS
100TASKS.COM

FROM VISION TO VENTURE

ABOUT THIS
EBOOK.
Ideation. This crucial process transforms
imagination into a tangible, marketable
concept, and is key to every successful
venture.

At its core, ideation connects vision to

venture, transforming a dream into a
reality that addresses a genuine market
need. It's a dance of creativity and
practicality, where a simple idea can
evolve into a successful business venture
with the right guidance and resources.

BUT HOW DOES THIS

PROCESS WORK? WWW.REALLYGREATSITE.COM

How do you navigate the often turbulent

seas of generating, developing, and
communicating a compelling business
idea?

That's where this ebook comes into play.

We've pooled insights, experiences, and
best practices from assisting over
20,000+ startups worldwide in their
journey from vision to venture.
LET'S
With this guide at your disposal, GROW
you'll be well equipped to develop a
better understanding of the art of
ideation, setting a solid foundation for
your startup's success

100 TASKS 100TASKS.COM

100 Tasks Organisation
Meet the team

Zachary Sadler Diana Cherevko Alexander Schröder

Head of Operations Venture Analyst Startup Strategist & Coach

Optimizes daily functions Evaluates potential Provides tailored guidance,

and strategic direction. investment opportunities, strategic insights, and
Focuses on efficiency, and supports strategic mentorship to overcome
compliance, and quality, decision-making within our growth hurdles, shaping
driving growth through team, vital for driving the success of emerging
data-driven improvements growth and innovation ventures.
and customer satisfaction.

ABOUT
MARTIN BELL
Martin Bell is the visionary and driving force behind the
hyper-successful 100 Tasks Startup System which has
driven the growth of 20,000+ startups including Zalando
and Delivery Hero.

At Rocket Internet, he pioneered the 100-Day-Launch

process and led 120+ private and public sector venture-
building projects.

Martin Bell
CEO & Founder
TABLE OF
CONTENTS

1 Page: 7-8 2 Page: 9

WHAT IS IDEATION? THE TOP-DOWN APPROACH

1.1 What is Ideation? 2.1. Establishing Your Business Idea
1.2. Ideation's Impact on Startup 2.2. Developing Ideas Into Solutions
Success: Connecting Vision to Venture 2.3. Refining Your Business Idea
1.3. Common Challenges in Ideation

3 Page: 10 4 Page: 11

UNDERSTAND YOUR 4. IMPLEMENTING YOUR

TARGET MARKET IDEA
3.1. Research to Find Your Target Audience 4.1. Analyzing Risk Factors
3.2. Understanding Your Audience 4.2. Securing Financial Resources
3.3. Developing a Marketing Plan 4.3. Establishing a Team
4.4. Developing a Business Launch
Strategy

5 Page: 12 6 Page: 13-14

SUCCESSFUL IDEATION 100 TASKS + IDEATION

STRATEGIES USED BY 6.1 Proven Success
LARGE D.C. VENTURE 6.2 Overview Poster 100 Tasks Playbook

CAPITAL FIRMS
5.1. Identifying Growth Opportunities
5.2. Utilizing the Right Resources
5.3. Early and Proactive Valuation
5.4. Pooling your Network

100 TASKS
TABLE OF
CONTENTS

7 Page: 15-17 8 Page: 18

START WITH PROBLEMS PLAN MISSION

7.1. Identify Problems and Trends 8.1. Define Overall Vision, Mission, and
7.2. Evaluate Problems and Trends Core Values
7.3. Select Problem to Focus on 8.2. Gather All Steps
7.4. Pains & Gains + Determine Jobs to 8.3. Streamline Steps
Be Done

9 Page: 19 10 Page: 20-25

ASSEMBLE CORE TEAMS COLLECT IDEAS

9.1 Master Founder Fundamentals 10.1. Decide on One of “Three Horizons”
9.2 Round out Founding Team 10. 2. Transfer Proven Business Models
9.3 Secure Mentorship 10.3. Generate “Long List” of Ideas
10.4. Distill into “Short List”

11 Page: 26-33 12 Page: 34

DETERMINE BUSINESS FINAL THOUGHTS

MODEL
11.1 Use “10 Types of Innovation” for “Short List”
11.2. Use “Blue Ocean” for “Short List”
11.3. Use “Business Model Canvas” for Short List
11.4. Compare Using “Discovery”
11.5. Rank Business Models on “Short List”
11.6. Build and Adapt P.o.C. of #1 Business Model
11.7. Define Your USPs
11.8. Use “Lean Startup” Loop for Validation
11.9. Ensure ESG Compliance
11.10. Build Financial Model
11.11. Create Pitch Deck

100 TASKS
 SETUP

THIS IS WHERE
IT STARTS.

Welcome to the 100 Tasks Playbook and its first stage:

Setup. This initial phase focuses on the ideation process
crucial for establishing a successful startup. Here, you'll lay
the groundwork to ensure a solid foundation for future
growth.

The Setup stage will get you prepared for the rigorous
lead up to launch. You’ll come out of the stage fully
certain of what you’re about to start building, having a
tangible grasp on the potential and the overall direction
of your soon-to-be-venture! Ready? Let´s dive in.
1. WHAT IS
IDEATION?
Ideation is a creative process where 1.2
1
Impact on Startup Success:
you generate, develop, and curate Connecting Vision to Venture
new, innovative business ideas. It is
the phase where potential solutions Startup success is often attributed to
to existing problems are explored and various factors like product-market fit,
fleshed out. team dynamics, and execution strategy.
However, it all starts with the ideation
This brainstorming process is not stage. Without a solid concept or idea,
limited to practicality or feasibility in everything else falls flat. It's the
the early stages. Instead, it foundation for any successful venture.
encourages free-thinking and
exploration of all possibilities. In today's competitive landscape, with
new startups emerging constantly,
Ideation encompasses everything having a unique and viable idea is
from identifying market gaps to crucial. It sets you apart, giving you an
conceptualizing groundbreaking edge in the market.
products or services.
Moreover, a well-developed idea fuels
It allows you to innovate, iterate, and motivation and passion for your startup,
refine ordinary ideas into leading to better team dynamics and
extraordinary opportunities. This execution.
phase forms the foundation of your
startup, setting the trajectory for your
future venture.

100 TASKS 07
1.3. Common Challenges
in Ideation
While ideation is powerful, it comes with challenges that can feel like navigating
through a maze with no clear exits. Do any of these seem familiar to you?

When you're bombarded with numerous ideas but

struggle to decide which one to pursue, it can hinder
progress. This overwhelming situation may lead to
procrastination or a complete stop in the ideation
stage.
ANALYSIS PARALYSIS
To overcome this, take a systematic approach to
decision-making. Assess ideas based on market
demands, implementability, and how well they align
with your goals.

Many innovators hesitate to execute daring concepts

because they fear failure. However, it's important to
view failure as a stepping stone rather than a
FEAR OF FAILURE roadblock. It's an integral part of the innovation
journey, offering valuable learning opportunities and
contributing to personal and project growth.

Working in isolation can cause you to miss potential

flaws or alternative strategies in your ideas.
Collaboration is key.
LACK OF
COLLABORATION Seek input from mentors, consultants, or a diverse
creative team to critique and enhance your concepts.
Their fresh perspectives and constructive feedback
can be invaluable in refining your ideas.

100 TASKS 08
2. THE TOP-
DOWN 1 2 3
APPROACH
To tackle the challenges of ideation, 1
Establishing Your Business Idea
a deliberate and strategic approach is A top-down ideation approach starts
crucial for transforming visionary with establishing a clear understanding
ideas into successful ventures. of your vision and goals. Ask yourself:
One effective methodology is the
top-down ideation approach. What problem am I trying to solve?
What
What problem
value am I trying to solve?
am I offering?
This method, embraced by successful What
Who value
is my am market?
target I offering?
D.C. Venture Capital firms and startup Who is my target market?
founders, starts with the bigger
picture and narrows down to the
specifics. These foundational questions will help
you solidify your purpose and guide the
In this section, we'll explore the rest of your decision-making process.
principles, significance, and effective
implementation of top-down ideation 2.
2 Developing Ideas Into Solutions

approach for startup success. After establishing a clear vision, the

next step is to generate ideas that align
with your purpose and target market.
It's important to think creatively and
not restrict yourself to conventional
solutions. As Steve Jobs once said,
"Innovation sets leaders apart from
followers." Embrace risks and explore
unconventional ideas without fear.

3.
3 Refining Your Business Idea

Once you have a pool of ideas, it's time

to refine and prioritize them. The top-
down approach is particularly effective
here. Start with the bigger picture and
eliminate ideas that don't align with
your vision and goals. You can also seek
feedback from customers or industry
experts to further narrow down your
options.

100 TASKS 09
3. UNDERSTANDING
YOUR TARGET
MARKET
Having a clear vision and a curated list of innovative
ideas, we now move on to a crucial step in the top-
down ideation process - understanding your target
market. This is where your abstract concepts start
to take shape, influenced by the needs, preferences,
and behaviors of your potential customers.

Do Your Research
To truly understand your target market, conduct thorough
research. Study demographics, psychographics, and run
surveys or focus groups. Collect data to identify customers'
challenges and tailor your solution to meet their needs.

Understand Your Develop a

Audience Marketing Plan
Dig deeper into your audience, Determine the best channels to
moving beyond demographics and reach your audience, craft
psychographics. Understand their compelling messaging that
motivations, desires, goals, and addresses their pain points, and
aspirations to connect on a deeper create an overall strategy for
level and create resonating solutions. promoting your idea and brand.

100 TASKS 10
4. IMPLEMENTING YOUR IDEA
Once you thoroughly know your target market and have a solid marketing plan, it's
time for the next crucial step: putting your idea into action. This is when your
concept becomes a practical and working solution.

Analyze Risk Factors

Before you start implementing, it's crucial to analyze the
possible risks linked to your idea. These risks may involve
finances, legal aspects, or operations. By spotting and
dealing with them early, you can reduce their effects and
boost your idea's success rate.

Secure Financial Resources

Securing adequate funding for your idea during
implementation is a common challenge. It includes
budgeting, seeking investments or loans, and cost
reduction without sacrificing quality. A strong financial
plan and pitch are crucial for attracting necessary funds.

Establish a Team
No idea succeeds without a dedicated, skilled team.
As a startup founder, assembling a team with the right
talent, experience, and passion is crucial. This involves
hiring, recruiting co-founders or advisors, and building
partnerships.

Develop a Business Launch Strategy

With a solid understanding of your target market, a
thorough risk analysis, and the necessary resources and
team in place, it's time to develop a business launch
strategy. This includes setting key milestones, establishing
realistic timelines, and planning for potential challenges.

100 TASKS 11
5. STRATEGIES USED BY LARGE
D.C. VENTURE CAPITAL FIRMS
When ideating, it's important to not only address
common challenges and find solutions but also
to draw inspiration from successful strategies
employed by established D.C. Venture Capital
Firms. These firms have a proven track record of
identifying innovative ideas and nurturing them
into successful businesses.

IDENTIFYING GROWTH EARLY AND PROACTIVE

OPPORTUNITIES VALUATION
D.C. Venture Capital Firms excel at D.C. Venture Capital Firms prioritize early
spotting growth opportunities in various and proactive valuation during ideation.
industries and markets. They conduct This helps them identify potential risks
thorough research, analyze trends, and and challenges, as well as assess the
use their expertise to identify potential potential return on investment.
winners.
As a startup founder, conduct your own
As a startup founder, always keep an eye valuation during ideation - be realistic
out for market gaps or emerging trends about risks and challenges, and calculate
that you can leverage. the potential ROI for your idea.

UTILIZING THE RIGHT POOLING YOUR

RESOURCES NETWORK
D.C. Venture Capital Firms have access to D.C. Venture Capital Firms have a broad
various resources such as industry network in the industry, connecting with
experts, specialized tools, and accomplished entrepreneurs, investors,
technology. They use these resources and mentors. They use this network for
when generating ideas, ensuring insights and feedback during ideation.
informed decisions and idea validation.
As a startup founder, leverage your
As a startup founder, consult experts, join network - get advice and feedback from
events, and use tools to validate your experienced individuals to enhance your
ideas effectively. ideas.

100 TASKS 12
6. 100 TASKS + IDEATION
= PROVEN SUCCESS

The 100 Tasks Playbook is not just a set of tasks to be completed, but rather a
carefully curated process that ensures the success of your startup. Unlike traditional
startup literature, it dives deep into the intricacies of company-building with its 100
step-by-step tasks, offering both a high-level overview and detailed proven execution
strategies. Offering both a high-level overview and detailed execution strategies

Structured Approach Time and Effort Saving

Provides a comprehensive roadmap Centralizes resources and
with detailed instructions for each task, instructions, preventing common
preventing missed steps. mistakes and streamlining planning
for efficient task execution.
Risk Reduction
Minimizes startup risks by offering a Continuous Learning
proven roadmap from successful Encourages ongoing learning with
entrepreneurs, helping to validate ideas expert advice and industry insights,
and address roadblocks. fostering adaptability and
entrepreneurial skills.
Enhanced Success Rate
Tailored for startup growth, it includes Accountability
a supportive community, boosting Sets clear goals and timelines,
success chances and fostering valuable enhancing accountability and
connections. progress tracking through regular
check-ins and milestones.

Trusted by 20,000+ Startups

100 Tasks
www.100tasks.com
OVERVIEW POSTER 100 TASKS SYSTEM

3 STAGES

SETUP LAUNCH SCALE

This phase encompasses This phase focuses on This phase encompasses
ideation, market research, developing and launching ideation, market research,
assembling a founding a minimum viable product assembling a founding
team, and crafting a (MVP), acquiring initial team, and crafting a
business plan. customers, and securing business plan.
funding.

100 Tasks
www.100tasks.com
7. START WITH PROBLEMS

7. 1. IDENTIFY During this ideation stage, it's advisable

PROBLEMS AND TRENDS to focus solely on the problems rather
than potential solutions. This allows you
to explore the problem's complexities
The exciting journey of startup in depth without jumping ahead to the
ideation starts with identifying a solution phase.
problem that needs solving. This
problem serves as the foundation of Remember, the goal is not to create a
your startup, guiding your innovation. startup around an idea but to solve a
problem. By starting with the problem,
To do this, you can use your personal you can more naturally find a solution
experiences and professional that fits into the market and resonates
knowledge, conduct problem with potential customers.
interviews, and brainstorm a long list
of problems. When identifying the 7.2 Evaluate Problems and Trends
problem, it's important to stay curious When seeking problems to solve, focus
and open-minded. Ask yourself: on those that are not only relevant but
also growing. Evaluate trends like tech,
society, economy, or politics to gauge
How will the customer's life improve their importance and timing for
once the problem is resolved?
Do they really want a solution?
addressing them. Timing is key for
Why does this problem exist? startup success; entering the market
Is the problem worth solving? too early or late can lead to failure.

To evaluate trends, use online research,

expert interviews, and market reports
for insights.

100 TASKS 15
Next, it's important to grasp the "pain
level" associated with each problem.
To do this, ask questions such as:

How much do people want a solution? 1

What steps are they taking to address it?

How much would they pay for a solution?

By combining trend analysis with

understanding the "pain level" of a
problem, you can effectively identify the
most promising problems to focus on.
This is what we will tackle next.

7.3. Select Problem to Focus on

Choosing the right problem is crucial in
startup ideation. It's like selecting a thesis
for an essay, where the problem should
2
align with your startup's overall vision.
Just as paragraphs tie back to the main
thesis in an essay, every aspect of your
startup - business model, operations,
and growth plans - should tie back to this
central problem.

This approach creates a cohesive,

problem-centered strategy, similar to
Gorillas, a food delivery company that
became Europe's fastest unicorn by
focusing on a clearly defined problem
and implementing a well-thought-out
feedback loop. The stage of choosing the
right problem sets the foundation for
future success.

100 TASKS PAGE 07

7.4 Pains & Gains +
Determine Jobs to Be Done
Understanding your customer is key for startup success. This involves breaking down
the problem your startup aims to solve into three core components:

Negative emotions, situations, risks, undesired costs

experienced by potential customers
PAIN POINTS Identify and assess intensity of pain points
Consider frequency in customer's life to design effective
solution.

The positive outcomes customers seek or are delighted by

Can be categorized as functional, emotional, social, or financial
GAINS benefits
Should be prioritized based on the value they deliver to
customers

Defines a customer's goal when using a product or service.

Crucial for designing to meet customer needs effectively.
JOBS TO BE DONE Jobs involve various stages, each a chance to enhance value.
Emphasize simplifying stages: planning, gathering, verifying,
and improving.

KEEP IN MIND...
The process of identifying pain points,
gains, and jobs to be done is iterative.
You will need to revisit these elements as
you refine your startup idea and learn
more about your customers.

Understanding these components will

not only help you create a product or
service that resonates with your
customers but also positions your startup
for success.

100 TASKS 17
8. Plan Mission

VISION MISSION CORE VALUES

8.1 DEFINE OVERALL VISION,

MISSION, AND CORE VALUES
When crafting your startup's vision emphasizing their dedication to
and mission statements, make sure delivering exceptional products to
they provide a clear roadmap of a diverse range of users.
what you intend to achieve.
Your mission and vision statements
These statements will guide your should be ambitious yet attainable.
future actions, objectives, and key They should be succinct, usually one
results. Respected companies like to two sentences, and describe a
Google and Apple have concise but unique outcome that only your
powerful mission statements that startup can provide.
reflect their business objectives.
It's important that your vision and
Google's mission is "To organize the mission align with your core values,
world's information and make it as demonstrated by Apple: "We build
universally accessible and useful," products we believe in" and "We are
highlighting their commitment to here to make a positive difference in
providing valuable and timely society, as well as make a profit."
information.

Apple aims "To bring the best Approach this journey as an

personal computing products and adventure, ensuring everyone - your
support to students, educators, team, investors, and customers -
designers, scientists, engineers..." enjoys the ride with you.

100 TASKS 18
9. Assemble Core Teams
Master Founder Fundamentals

8 FUNDAMENTALS TO STARTUP SUCCESS

Productivity isn't about burning the midnight oil,

WORK SMART but about smart management of your time and
resources.

Keep your eye on the goal. Regularly evaluate

MAINTAIN A BUSINESS FOCUS whether your actions align with your business
objectives.

Don't underestimate the power of a good night's

VALUE SLEEP sleep. It recharges you, making you more effective
in your work.

Incorporate meditation into your daily routine. It

MEDITATE can provide a fresh perspective and reduce stress,
improving decision-making.

Regular physical activity is essential not only for

EXERCISE CONSISTENTLY your physical health but also for your mental well-
being.

A balanced diet fuels your body and mind, helping

NOURISH YOUR BODY you perform at your peak.

Success isn't just about financial gains. Value your

CHERISH RELATIONSHIPS relationships - they provide emotional support and
can often offer valuable insights.

Embrace challenges, learn from failures, and

CULTIVATE A GROWTH MINDSET continuously seek personal and professional
growth.

100 TASKS 19
9.2 ROUND OUT
FOUNDING TEAM
A startup's foundation lies in an effective and diverse founding team.
This team doesn't solely depend on close friendships, but rather on a
deep level of trust, understanding, and professional compatibility

The Founding Team Roles

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Chief Product Officer (CPO)

The CEO is the visionary leader, steering The CPO, also known as the 'product
the startup towards its mission. This role visionary', is in charge of the product
often involves setting strategy, making strategy. They ensure that the product
key business decisions, and representing aligns with the company's vision, meets
the company to investors, the media, the customers' needs, and stands out in
and the public. the market.

Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)

The CTO focuses on the technical The CMO leads the marketing efforts,
aspects of the startup, overseeing the focusing on customer acquisition and
development and technological retention. They're responsible for
coherence of the product or service. They creating a strong brand identity,
are responsible for keeping the company conducting market research, and
at the cutting edge of technological devising effective marketing strategies.
progress.

Industry knowledge and experience A team could comprise an analytical

aren't strict prerequisites. Outsiders can introvert, an outgoing salesperson,
bring disruptive innovation, like Elon and diverse individuals. Investors favor
Musk did with Tesla despite lacking auto startups with a multifaceted founding
industry background. Shared vision and team. Startup success hinges on team
solution-oriented mindset are key. harmony, diverse ideas, and efficient
execution.

100 TASKS 20
MENTORSHIP
A mentor plays a crucial role in the journey from vision to venture,
providing wisdom, guidance, and insights based on their own experiences.
Their perspective helps identify and avoid potential pitfalls, accelerating
your startup's growth. So, what should you look for in a mentor?

CRITICAL AND HONEST FEEDBACK They should offer logical criticism.

A track record of successful entrepreneurial

FOUNDING EXPERIENCE initiatives shows they've been where you are and
can provide relevant advice.

They should understand startup investments,

INVESTMENT UNDERSTANDING potentially investing as a business angel. They
could become your early-stage investor.

Access to potential investors aligned with your

NETWORK CONNECTIONS business model is a plus.

Your mentor's interests should align with yours to

ALIGNED INTERESTS avoid future conflicts.

A good mentor values you as a person and cares

PERSONAL RESPECT about your circumstances. You should enjoy their
company.

They should come highly recommended,

POSITIVE REFERENCES enhancing your credibility.

Instead of financial compensation, consider

COMPENSATION STRUCTURE offering them equity.

The right mentor can refine your startup's ideation, turning your
vision into a successful venture. Quality mentorship is essential
for your startup's success. But remember, mentorship is a two-
way street. Bring value, be open-minded, receptive to feedback,
and willing to learn and grow.

100 TASKS 21
10. COLLECT IDEAS
Decide on One of “Three Horizons” They achieved this by innovating
This “method to the madness”, so to within their operating model, keeping
speak, involves applying McKinsey's production in-house, and responding
renowned Three Horizon Framework to market trends rapidly.
to gauge the level of ambition in your
transformation journey. This Horizon 2: Diversification
framework serves as a robust tool to Horizon 2 encompasses diversification
guide you in transforming the of current business models or
problems you've identified into expanding the scope of already
concrete business models. existing products. Have you heard a
startup founder describe their
Horizon 1: Incremental Innovation venture as "Uber for X"?
Incremental innovation involves
improving an existing product or This 'X' indicates the brand has taken
service, often guided by the mantra, an existing infrastructure and
"I can do that slightly better". transported it into unexplored
The classic example is Zara, who territory. An example of this is Wag,
revolutionized the retail industry by the dog-walking app that adapted
reducing the standard six-month Uber's business model to solve a
release cycle to just three weeks. unique problem.

100 TASKS 22
Horizon 3: Disruption Like a useful wheel doesn't need
Disruption is innovation with its foot reinventing, your startup doesn't need
on the accelerator. It involves flipping to be unprecedented to succeed.
an existing market on its head and Innovation is often evolutionary, not
making the competition obsolete. A revolutionary.
1
classic example is Netflix, who
disrupted the DVD rental space by Explore proven business models
creating a whole new market for
streaming content, displacing big
names like Blockbuster and Redbox. The Middleman Model - W. PARKER
Facilitates transactions between two or
As you conceptualize your startup, more parties.
consider which horizon your idea falls
The Marketplace Model - airbnb
within. This understanding will help Connects buyers and sellers directly,
you envision your venture's place facilitating transactions across a wide range
within the larger industry landscape of goods and services.
and guide your strategic decisions.
The Subscription Model - Netflix
Ensures constant revenue with customer
loyalty.

2 The Customization model - nike

10.2 Transfer Proven Business
Tailors products to individual tastes and
Models preferences.
Learning from the past is wise,
especially in the startup world. Rather The On-Demand Model - Uber
Delivers immediate service or product
than copying proven business models,
access.
draw inspiration from their core
principles and adapt them to your The Freemium Model - Slack
circumstances. When sculpting your Offers foundational services for free, with
premium upgrades
startup idea, study successful
enterprises. The Reverse Auction Model - FedBid
Procures optimal pricing through
competitive bidding.
How did they innovate,
The Virtual Good Model - Facebook
differentiate, and create value?
Monetizes digital items in online platforms.

The Direct Sales Model - Avon.

Empowers direct consumer engagement
It's not always about creating
without middlemen
something entirely new.
Revolutionary ideas often stem from
existing concepts, tweaked to serve
new markets or solve new problems.

100 TASKS 23
10.3. Generate “Long List” of Ideas

At this stage of your startup journey,

your main task is to create a
comprehensive "Long List" of
1
potential business ideas. Include all
the raw ideas you've come up with so
far, regardless of feasibility. Quantity
is key, as we aim to capture as many
ideas as possible, even if they seem
outlandish.

Revisit previous steps and gather

every idea that comes up, without
considering feasibility at this stage.
Aim for around 20 diverse business
models. This exercise is crucial to
avoid continuous pivoting, a common
stumbling block for early-stage
startups.
2

Generating a "Long List" follows the

first law of creativity: quantity leads to
quality in ideation. The more ideas
you have initially, the greater the
chances of finding a high-quality,
sustainable business model. This list
will serve as a roadmap for successful
ideation.

Include all ideas, whether inspired by

Porter's 5 Forces, the Ecosystems of
Future Growth, or Design-Thinking
Workshops.

100 TASKS 24
10.4. DISTILL INTO “SHORT LIST”

When exploring startup ideas, it's vital to carefully assess the feasibility of
your business models. While it's common to value your initial ideas highly,
the key is to refine those concepts into a practical, promising shortlist.
To do this, evaluate each idea based on the following criteria

Consider the resources each venture will require:

RESOURCES REQUIRED finances, human capital, time, and industry-specific
needs.

Assess the risks in each venture, such as market

RISK volatility, regulations, or technological
uncertainties. High risk is okay if ROI is high.

Does the venture match your team's technical

TECHNICAL CAPABILITIES: skills? A great idea relies on your execution ability.

Is the venture feasible to execute?

FEASIBILITY Factors include market readiness, tech
advancement, and regulations.

Assess the timeline for each venture.

TIME HORIZON How long will it take to go from idea to market?

Assess the market size, growth potential, and

MARKET ATTRACTIVENESS competition of each target venture.

Does the venture match your passions, skills, and

FOUNDER-MARKET FIT experience? A solid founder-market fit boosts
motivation and enhances success odds.

Assess market competition. Is there a niche to

COMPETITIVE SITUATION capitalize on, or will you battle established giants?

100 TASKS 25
11. DETERMINE
BUSINESS MODEL

11.1. USE “10 TYPES OF

INNOVATION” FOR “SHORT LIST”

Now that you have your list of ideas, let's determine the business
models for each one. Starting with every startup's favorite
buzzword, innovation, we will explore the ten types of innovation
that align with your ideas. These types are divided into three
categories: configuration, offering, and customer experience.
The configuration category focuses on the core of your business.

100 TASKS 26
To address the profit model, let's A mantra I’ve followed in my venture
answer some basic questions that are building career is to automate
quite apparent: anything that can be automated —
and do it consistently. This is the most
How will this idea generate revenue? effective way to expedite manual
1
How much is this idea worth? processes and enhance value
production.

The more complex questions arise Automating tasks can help cut labor
when considering how to differentiate costs or significantly reduce delivery
in this context. time, differentiating your customer
experience.
Will you offer a premium service below
the benchmark to stand out?

We started with innovation from the

If so, back end, and now we've arrived at
the front end: Customer Experience.
How will you cut costs?
How will your marketing strategy Essentially, customer experience
2
maintain value perception? refers to what happens after or while
the value reaches your customer.
Consider services, which may involve
Networking relies on connections. supplementing your offering with
In other words, bonuses such as 24/7 support or
lifetime insurance. Determine which
of your business models can
How can others help you?
accommodate such enhancements.
Can an internal stakeholder add value to
the product?
Do you know someone in the industry
who can offer cost-saving advantages?

Consider your company's organizational

structure, including the org chart, assets,
and knowledge management. These
present opportunities to cut costs, add
value, or streamline logistics.

100 TASKS 27
11.2 USE “BLUE OCEAN”
FOR “SHORT LIST”

Coming up with ideas for a successful As startup founders, embarking on this

startup is like sailing in an unexplored 'blue ocean' voyage requires an
sea known as the 'Blue Ocean.' The inquisitive, open-minded, and
goal is to find new market spaces, the imaginative mindset. It's a challenge
'blue oceans,' instead of entering that demands creativity in identifying
crowded markets called 'red oceans. value gaps and courage in venturing
into untapped market spaces. This is
The key to navigating a 'blue ocean' is the essence of ideation for startup
not necessarily inventing new success.
technology. It's often about creating a
unique connection between existing 11.3. Use “Business Model Canvas”
technologies and the unmet needs of for Short List
the market. Netflix exemplifies this The "Business Model Canvas" is a
approach, revolutionizing the movie- strategic tool for outlining how your
rental industry by creatively aligning startup will create, deliver, and capture
existing technologies with customer value. By analyzing your ideas through
demand. this lens, you can pinpoint strengths
and weaknesses. (see next page)
In a 'blue ocean' strategy, the aim is
to make the competition irrelevant by Understanding each idea's unique
creating and capturing new demand value proposition is key to success. It's
while achieving differentiation and not just about what your product does
low cost. It involves exploring but how it enriches your customers'
uncharted territories within existing lives. Dive into each idea, assessing its
industries rather than building new potential to meet customer needs and
industries from scratch. enhance experiences.

100 TASKS 28
 11.4. Compare Using “Discovery” Test it with your target segment to
Now, as we move on to validating validate identified pain points. Then,
assumptions, it's crucial to start propose solutions and refine concepts
customer validation early, even before based on the insights.
developing the MVP (Minimum Viable
Product). State your hypothesis, test them
through interviews with potential
Customer Discovery, which starts with customers, and iterate through the
your shortlist, serves as a preventive process. Evaluate the feedback, adjust
measure against this scenario. the product accordingly, and iterate as
needed to enhance the concept.
The process involves creating, testing,
and validating hypotheses. Build your Rigorous customer discovery ensures a
hypothesis based on the archetype well-rounded understanding of the
defined in tasks 1-4, incorporating most valid and profitable business
pain points and needs. model

40%
Nearly..
of startup failures occur due to a lack of market need.

100 TASKS 29
CROWNING YOUR CHAMPION:
IDENTIFYING YOUR STARTUP IDEA

After ranking your business models, choose the standout - your champion.
This idea is the most viable, profitable, and aligned with your vision.
The surprise may be that it's not your initial top pick, but the ideation
process reveals its potential. Trust this rigorous, objective process; it
prevents attachment to an idea just because it's yours.

The exercise aims not just at generating an idea, but the right one that
matches your capabilities, market needs, and ideation patterns. Upon
crowning your champion, celebrate this milestone, a significant step from
vision to venture. Remember, it's just the beginning; the champion idea is
your startup foundation.

11.6 BUILD AND ADAPT P.O.C.

OF #1 BUSINESS MODEL 11.7. DEFINE YOUR USPS
To quickly launch your concept, use a Your startup's success lies in your Unique
simple 5-step framework focusing on Selling Proposition (USP), the essence of
practical validation. Set clear objectives, your brand in customers' minds. Develop
tackle challenges early, and aim for a it by understanding your industry using
functional prototype. Porter's 5 Forces, assessing entry barriers,
alternatives, buyer/supplier power, and
Speed matters; remove non-viable competition. Identify gaps your USP can
elements swiftly. A validated proof of address.
concept accelerates market entry,
streamlining the process for a smoother Use the "reduce, eliminate, raise, and
transition to market phase. create" matrix to differentiate effectively
without sacrificing cost. If a blue ocean
market isn't viable, find your uniqueness
in a red ocean like Yellowtail did.
Refine your USP to stand out confidently.

100 TASKS 30
11.8 USE “LEAN STARTUP” Luckily, when you succeed, you'll
LOOP FOR VALIDATION enjoy increased revenue, attract top
talent, and secure more investments.
The "Lean Startup" loop is crucial for
startup ideation and validation. This ESG factors are crucial at every level
iterative process involves building, of your business, so it's important to
measuring, and learning to identify give them the attention they deserve.
what works and pivot what doesn't.
Meeting the basic ESG requirements
Start with your idea, create a basic is a matter of doing your due
version (MVP), test with real users, diligence. Tap into your network of
gather feedback, and refine your experts for help. It could mean the
product. Repeat until achieving difference between life and death for
product-market fit. Align your your company. Once you meet the
business model with market standard requirements and comply
demands for startup success. with ESG criteria, you can start to
view ESG as an opportunity to create
value.
11.9 ENSURE ESG
COMPLIANCE
For startups, sustainability has 5 WAYS TO CREATE VALUE
evolved from a nice-to-have to a THROUGH ESG COMPLIANCE
must-have. It involves considering the
environmental, social, and
1. Attract more customers and build
governance factors of your business
strong relationships with the community
model.
and government.

Think of ESG factors as a golden

2. Reduce your use of natural resources
opportunity to set yourself apart from
and cut costs in the process.
the competition. The days of cutting
corners to save money are ending.
3. Streamline internal processes by
Consumers and investors are well
deregulating where possible and even
aware of this.
earn subsidies.

There are three groups of 4. Motivate your employees by giving

stakeholders who are interested in them a sense of purpose. This will also
your company's ESG compliance: improve employee retention.

1. Customers
5. Take advantage of the investment
2. Employees
implications of a longer lifespan.
3. investors.

As the founder, it's your job to create Instead of seeing ESG as just another
a strategy that meets the needs of all box to check, consider it as a way to
three groups. differentiate yourself.

100 TASKS 31
11.10. BUILD FINANCIAL MODEL

When it comes to your business To help you with financial modeling,

model, numbers are the key to we've outlined two methods.
success. That's where our Task 24
comes in - it's all about the numbers. The first is the classic financial model,
Specifically, it helps you map out your which focuses on forecasting and
projected earnings and expenses. assumptions based on numbers. By
creating a roadmap to profitability,
By calculating a clear survival you can assess whether you'll need
benchmark and potential ceiling, funding and plan accordingly.
you'll have a solid foundation for
determining how much funding you'll If the classic model indicates that you
need later on. This will enable you to do require funding, the "investment-
monetize your value proposition and ask model" will provide you with the
understand the implications involved. answers you need. This model helps
You'll have a breakdown of your you determine exactly how much
revenue streams and costs, giving funding you'll need and how it should
you a complete picture of your be allocated.
venture.

Knowing these factors will help you Keep in mind that when presenting
determine how much capital you your financial model to investors, it's
need to bridge the gap between your important to be concise. They want a
projected costs and your available brief run-down of the numbers, not a
funds. You'll also gain insights into lengthy story. Focus on the essential
when your revenue will surpass your data and demonstrate your
costs, allowing you to plan for the understanding of the financial
future. aspects of your business.

100 TASKS 32
11.11. CREATE PITCH DECK
The infamous pitch deck: Your 5 minutes to share your life’s work. Founders strive for
a compelling pitch deck blending practicality and passion, intertwining storytelling
with solid facts. A strong pitch deck secures funding - our 10-part guide ensures your
venture shines. Follow each step to build your foundation.

Present your company's name logo, and one-

1. TITLE SLIDE line describing what your company does

Indicate the problem our business / idea solves.

2. PROBLEM / OPPORTUNITY Remember: the solution arises from the
problem , not vice versa

Explain how your business solves this problem.

3. SOLUTION / VALUE Make it clear now the value is delivered and
PROPOSITION experienced

Spell out your business model.

Represent a unit economics that is associated
4. TRACTION / BUSINESS MODEL with product units show the numbers turnover,
growth, etc.)

Illustrate a sufficiently large market out there.

Suggest now the market will develop in the
5. CUSTOMER / MARKET future.
Specify who your customer Is

6. MARKETING PLAN / GO-TO- Outline how you reach out to your customer.
MARKET Define your Marketing/Sales campaign.

Touch on your competitors.

7. COMPETITION Differentiate your business idea from others.

Take a "Look into a crystal ball with the help of

8. FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS the financial model.
Prove the possibility for exponential growth.

Describe your status quo.

9. USE OF FUNDS Share your plan on financial resources for the
next 3-4 years

Convince them vou are the right person/team

10. TEAM for the business model and domain.
Stress on the Founder-Market-Fit

100 TASKS 33
12. FINAL THOUGHTS

Mastering the ideation process isn't a one-size-fits-all

endeavor. It's about discovering what resonates with
your unique vision and venture. The top-down
ideation approach we discussed? It's a powerful
method for transforming your ideas into tangible
solutions for the market.

Remember, ideation is a journey, not just a

destination on the map.

Every successful venture begins with a spark of

imagination. But what truly brings it to life?
Persistence, insight, and strategic action. As you
conclude this ebook, bear in mind that challenges
will arise, but armed with the right mindset and tools,
you can transform your best ideas into thriving
businesses, just as countless others have done before
you.

And speaking of tools, trusted by over 20,000 startups

worldwide, our complete playbook offers more than
just guidance—it provides a structured approach that
minimizes risks, enhances accountability, and fuels
sustained growth. So, as you navigate the startup
landscape, remember that the 100 Tasks Playbook is
here for you, step-by-step, ready to steer you from
idea to launch to scaling with confidence and clarity.

Thank you for accompanying us this far. Best of luck

as you move from vision to venture. May your journey
be filled with innovation, perseverance, and success.

100 Tasks
www.100tasks.com
The Ultimate Founders
Toolkit to...
Systematically Launch & Scale Your Startup 3-5x Faster.

This toolkit for startup builders won’t make building your

company easy - entrepreneurship just simply isn't - but it will
make it A LOT easier.

Why wouldn’t you want to increase your chances of success

tenfold by following a bulletproof process and tapping into the
collective experience of our community?

Get Your Toolkit Today