Author: Frank Anderson Matt Blanco
Last Updated: 21 December, 2022
Brainstorm
Interests
- Think about topics you’re interested in and know about. (Personal hygiene, food, roommate dynamics)
Problems
- What are some issues surrounding this interest that you might be able to solve? (It takes too long for my roommate to make breakfast AND shower every morning)
Solutions
- What are some possible solutions for each of these issues? (Eat breakfast in the shower)
What makes a great project?
It’s fun!
- Don't go with an idea just because it will be successful or because it will look good on a resume. Choose something you would have fun seeing come to life. This way not only will you be more invested into what you're making, but you'll build out skills you will ultimately use again.
It’s scalable!
- Generally the scope of a project should start out simple so it can be something that is eventually completed. It can grow over time and new features can always be added, but by starting small and creating a strong modular base then future additions can be completed without a problem.
Solves a problem!
- Having a problem to solve can help guide you and answer where you should direct your focus when you get stuck or come to a fork in the road.
Sanity Check
- You may have to do more research about the topic you’re interested in. Talk to potential users, learn important terms, think about the real issue at hand not just the symptoms.
- Choose what is essential for the product. What features are required for it to solve the problem or to be useful to the user. Are these things you want to build?
- Understand what differentiates your solution from others! This is the feature to focus on (and should be something that excites you).