Have you ever thought about building an application to solve a problem?
Maybe it’s a problem you’ve experienced personally or something that affects your audience. If so, there has never been a better time to turn that idea into a reality. With the rise of AI coding assistants and co-pilot tools, the process of creating applications is more accessible than ever.
I’m not saying you’ll instantly create a high-level production-ready application, but if you’ve been sitting on an idea, now is the perfect time to take the first step.
These tools make it possible to build and test a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)—the simplest version of your idea that solves the problem you’re addressing. It’s the easiest way to validate whether your solution resonates with others.
My Journey in Software Development
Over the past 15 years, I’ve worked in software development—managing projects, developing applications, running startups, and now leading a SaaS (Software as a Service) business. The changes I’ve witnessed in the field have been incredible.
For those unfamiliar, SaaS refers to software applications that users can access online for a subscription fee. Some examples include:
- Entertainment: Netflix, Hulu
- Accounting: Xero, QuickBooks
- Design: Canva
Years ago, building even a simple MVP required hiring a team of developers. That was time-intensive and expensive. But today, with AI tools, the barriers to entry have drastically lowered.
If you don’t know how to code, you can still create a functional application that solves a real problem. And if you’re a developer, you can leverage AI tools to streamline the process, turning what used to be a team project into something you can accomplish alone.
It’s About More Than Just Building
While it’s easier than ever to build an application, the real question is: Does your product solve a real problem for others?
Before you dive into development, you need to validate your idea. Validation means:
- Making sure there is a genuine need for your product.
- Ensuring that people aren’t just saying they like the idea, but that they’re willing to pay for it.
I’ve been through this process many times. I’ve been part of startups that failed and others that succeeded. The difference often came down to solving a specific problem and having a clear go-to-market strategy. It’s not just about building something; it’s about making sure it’s something people actually need and value enough to invest in.
Opportunities for Every Audience
You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to create something valuable. Some of the best solutions are improvements on existing tools—targeting gaps for specific audiences.
For example:
- A real estate agent could create an app to streamline processes for other agents or help clients searching for homes.
- A digital marketing agency could develop a tool to solve common challenges faced by agencies, even if it’s a niche improvement.
The key is identifying unmet needs or underserved audiences. A product doesn’t have to be a groundbreaking idea; it just has to solve a real problem for a specific group of people.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time
With the tools available today, the process of bringing an idea to life has never been faster or more efficient. You no longer need a team of developers or years of technical experience. Whether you’re an expert coder or someone who’s never written a single line of code, you can create something meaningful.
But remember, building is just one piece of the puzzle. Validating your idea and ensuring there’s demand for it are just as important. You’ll also need a clear plan to bring your product to market and connect with your audience.
Wrap Up
If you’ve been considering creating a product, don’t let hesitation stop you. Now is the time to take advantage of the tools and opportunities available. Whether you’re solving a problem for yourself, your audience, or a specific industry, the possibilities are endless.
And if you need help or guidance along the way, contact me here. I’d be happy to answer your questions and help you turn your idea into reality. Let’s make it happen!
