Solution Looking For A Problem vs Customer Development

Developers should learn about SLFAP to avoid common pitfalls in software projects, such as building features no one needs or over-engineering solutions meets developers should learn customer development when working on new products, startups, or innovative features to ensure they build solutions that solve real problems for users. Here's our take.

Solution Looking For A Problem

Nice Pick

Developers should learn about SLFAP to avoid common pitfalls in software projects, such as building features no one needs or over-engineering solutions

Pros

• It is crucial when working in startups, product teams, or any environment where resource allocation and user satisfaction are priorities, as understanding this concept helps focus efforts on solving validated problems rather than chasing unproven ideas
• Related to: agile-methodology, lean-startup

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Customer Development

Developers should learn Customer Development when working on new products, startups, or innovative features to ensure they build solutions that solve real problems for users

Pros

• It is particularly valuable in agile and lean startup environments to avoid wasted effort on unvalidated ideas, helping teams pivot or persevere based on evidence from customer interactions
• Related to: lean-startup, product-management

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Solution Looking For A Problem is a concept while Customer Development is a methodology. We picked Solution Looking For A Problem based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Solution Looking For A Problem wins

Based on overall popularity. Solution Looking For A Problem is more widely used, but Customer Development excels in its own space.