Validating an idea before launching it into the market is not just a strategic step, but a necessity to stand out in an environment where authentic value and local connection can make the difference. Rapid prototyping allows us to move forward intelligently, testing, learning, and adapting without wasting resources. To guide this process, we’ll follow the fictitious case of MariscoDirecto, a platform designed to bring the freshest seafood to Galician restaurants and rural houses.
Step 1: Define the Product Vision
“A boat that doesn’t know where it’s going will always lose its way.” Before creating something, you need a clear and shared vision. For MariscoDirecto, the vision is simple but powerful: “Bringing the best seafood from the ria directly to Galician tables, reducing intermediaries and guaranteeing freshness and quality.”
To define a solid vision:
- Discover who your clientele is and their real problems.
- Establish the unique value your solution offers.
- Communicate the essence of your idea clearly and inspiringly.
Step 2: Build an MVP (Minimum Viable Product)
“The first step doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be real.” The MVP is a basic version of your product that allows you to validate if your idea works in the real world. For MariscoDirecto, the MVP could be a WhatsApp group where fishers share their daily catches, orders pass through the fish market for registration and legalisation, and restaurants receive batches directly with corresponding certifications.
Test, observe, and ask:
- Do users find value?
- Is it easy to use?
- What problems do they encounter?
This first step might reveal, for example, that the fishing sector requires more efficient tools to manage orders, while restaurants demand more structured, clear, and detailed information.
Step 3: Evolve towards an MMP (Minimum Marketable Product)
“When the wind changes, adjust the sails.” With MVP feedback, it’s time to evolve towards a functional and market-attractive product. This step requires considering both user needs and regulatory compliance to ensure product operability and trust.
For MariscoDirecto, the MMP includes an app with sections for daily offers, direct booking and payment, and automatic alerts.
Regulatory compliance is key at this stage: the platform must ensure all marketed products pass through the fish market, meet food safety standards, and are correctly registered. Additionally, it’s essential that both fishers and restaurants using the app have the necessary licenses to operate.
This step transforms your product’s potential into a real and reliable solution, prepared to surprise and solve real problems in the Galician market, combining technology, functionality, and legality.
Step 4: Iterate and Adapt
“The sea is unpredictable; so are your clients.” Remember that launching marks not the end, but the start of a continuous conversation with your market. In MariscoDirecto’s case, fishing sector professionals might request features like demand prediction, while restaurants might ask for specific product filters. This feedback is key to constantly improving, maintaining the original vision while adapting to users’ real needs.
“There’s no better path to success than a good map and willingness to recalculate the route.” Rapid prototyping is a nautical chart guiding entrepreneurs to transform ideas into solid realities. Cast your nets, observe what you catch, and refine your technique, because with each cycle, you’ll be closer to catching excellence.
Are you ready to go fishing? The Galician Economic Office wants to be your ally. Request our free advisory services and discover how we can help you by filling out the form.
