Step 4
Opportunity Fit
Complete the modules to help define scope. Each step unlocks the next.
Core Question
Is the opportunity clear enough to justify deeper effort?
Important Note
The goal is not reassurance. The goal is to define scope, test assumptions, and reduce wasted effort.
Progress Tracker
Complete each step before moving to the next.
0 / 10 complete
Step 1 (Unlocks Step 2)
Reality Check
Decision:
What problem am I actually solving?
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Step 1 (Unlocks Step 2)
Reality Check
Decision:
What problem am I actually solving?
Founder must be able to say
- The problem in one sentence
- Without mentioning features or solutions
Completion check:
It sounds like something people already complain about.
Next-step rule:
Provide feedback to help refine scope and track progress. Mark Complete when you're ready for the next step.
Step 2 (Unlocks Step 3)
Who This Is For (and Not For)
Decision:
Who is the end user?
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Step 2 (Unlocks Step 3)
Who This Is For (and Not For)
Decision:
Who is the end user?
Founder must be able to say
- One clear person
- One situation where the problem shows up
Guardrail:
“Everyone” is not allowed.
Completion check:
You could recognize this person if you met them.
Next-step rule:
Provide feedback to help refine scope and track progress. Mark Complete when you're ready for the next step.
Step 3 (Unlocks Step 4)
Urgency Test
Decision:
Why does this business matter now?
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Step 3 (Unlocks Step 4)
Urgency Test
Decision:
Why does this business matter now?
Founder must be able to say
- What happens if they do nothing?
- Can this solution wait?
Guardrail:
“It’s cool” or “it’s innovative” doesn’t count.
Completion check:
The reason creates mild urgency without hype.
Next-step rule:
Provide feedback to help refine scope and track progress. Mark Complete when you're ready for the next step.
Step 4 (Unlocks Step 5)
Prioritize Outcome over Features
Decision:
What outcome am I promising?
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Step 4 (Unlocks Step 5)
Prioritize Outcome over Features
Decision:
What outcome am I promising?
Founder must be able to say
- One result the user wants
- Not how it’s delivered
Guardrail:
No features. No tech language.
Completion check:
The outcome reduces anxiety when read.
Next-step rule:
Provide feedback to help refine scope and track progress. Mark Complete when you're ready for the next step.
Step 5 (Unlocks Step 6)
Define Signal
Decision:
How will I know this is working?
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Step 5 (Unlocks Step 6)
Define Signal
Decision:
How will I know this is working?
Founder must be able to say
- One primary signal (opt-in / reply / click-through)
Guardrail:
Opinions and compliments don’t count.
Completion check:
The signal is observable and measurable.
Next-step rule:
Provide feedback to help refine scope and track progress. Mark Complete when you're ready for the next step.
Step 6 (Unlocks Step 7)
Same Day Launch
Decision:
What is the simplest thing that could prove interest?
Expand ▾
Step 6 (Unlocks Step 7)
Same Day Launch
Decision:
What is the simplest thing that could prove interest?
Founder must be able to say
- Obtain proof of concept (sign up / reply / click / ask “what’s next?”)
Guardrail:
No building full products yet.
Completion check:
Launch today with Same Day Launch.
Next-step rule:
Provide feedback to help refine scope and track progress. Mark Complete when you're ready for the next step.
Step 7 (Unlocks Step 8)
Prioritize Task
Decision:
What am I intentionally not doing yet?
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Step 7 (Unlocks Step 8)
Prioritize Task
Decision:
What am I intentionally not doing yet?
Founder must be able to say
- At least 3 things you’re postponing
Guardrail:
Discomfort here is normal.
Completion check:
Scope feels slightly “too small.”
Next-step rule:
Provide feedback to help refine scope and track progress. Mark Complete when you're ready for the next step.
Step 8 (Unlocks Step 9)
Risky Assumption
Decision:
What must be true for this to work?
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Step 8 (Unlocks Step 9)
Risky Assumption
Decision:
What must be true for this to work?
Founder must be able to say
- The one assumption that would kill the idea if wrong
Guardrail:
Only one assumption.
Completion check:
You could test it quickly.
Next-step rule:
Provide feedback to help refine scope and track progress. Mark Complete when you're ready for the next step.
Step 9 (Unlocks Step 10)
Manage Rejections
Decision:
How to effectively overcome rejections
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Step 9 (Unlocks Step 10)
Manage Rejections
Decision:
How to effectively overcome rejections
Founder must be able to say
- Identify the opporunity to pivot: messaging, service, or price
- Define the source of fear (failure / bad timing / comfortable)
Completion check:
Use the rejection as a conversation starter to refine offer.
Next-step rule:
Provide feedback to help refine scope and track progress. Mark Complete when you're ready for the next step.
Step 10
Signal Check
Decision:
Am I seeking proof or reassurance?
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Step 10
Signal Check
Decision:
Am I seeking proof or reassurance?
Founder must be able to say
- Answer honestly
Guardrail:
plannova exists to help guide you through the process — not to make you feel safe.
Completion check:
You’re ready to proceed with an extended launch OR pause to refine scope.
Next-step rule:
Provide feedback to help refine scope and track progress. Mark Complete when you're ready for the next step.
Keep the scope clear before building more
Complete the modules, identify the risky assumption, and move forward only when the signal supports it.
plannova provides a signals system for educational purposes and does not provide legal, financial, or investment advice.