Friday, September 28, 2018
Testing the Hypothesis, Part 2
Interviewees: Mike, Tim, Andrew, Joe, Jason
WHO: The five people I interviewed are all mainly fans of football and basketball, among pro sports. Additionally, they are all 30 years old or younger. They clearly fit every theorized quality of my ideal consumer: male, sports fans, partake in fantasy football and general sports fandom, young. Unfortunately, 3 out of 5 said they would not be interested in a Jersey-Rental service regardless of price or limitations, because they don't wear jerseys for any occasion. Because of this, they would never even consider subscribing to a service such as this. The other 2 respondents said they do own several jerseys and enjoy wearing them, but could not afford any jersey-rental service as they are college students who have enough on their plate as it is, financially speaking. This was especially discouraging as I would be targeting males in college or high school, so money may be an issue.
WHAT: The service I'm offering would be utilized by people who wear jerseys as a fashion statement or in support of a favorite team or player. People who attend many sporting events or are fans of several teams can stand to save some money when it comes to showing their support. This is not a business for the casual or intermediate sports fan.
WHY: The biggest factor between those who would subscribe to a jersey-rental and those who wouldn't is level of fandom. If you're not interested in sports, you won't be likely to wear a jersey, ever. Socializing and Money also affect the consumer's interests but not nearly as much as fandom, in this situation.
Inside the Boundary Outside the Boundary
WHO Sports Fans Non-Sport fans
People with money to spare People who don't want jerseys
WHAT Fans looking for current jerseys Jersey Purchasing
Fans who don't want to buy a jersey Buying used jerseys
People who need a jersey for special occasion
WHY Cheap solution to expensive jerseys People don't need jerseys
Sports fans need to show their fandom Jerseys never drop in value
WHO: The five people I interviewed are all mainly fans of football and basketball, among pro sports. Additionally, they are all 30 years old or younger. They clearly fit every theorized quality of my ideal consumer: male, sports fans, partake in fantasy football and general sports fandom, young. Unfortunately, 3 out of 5 said they would not be interested in a Jersey-Rental service regardless of price or limitations, because they don't wear jerseys for any occasion. Because of this, they would never even consider subscribing to a service such as this. The other 2 respondents said they do own several jerseys and enjoy wearing them, but could not afford any jersey-rental service as they are college students who have enough on their plate as it is, financially speaking. This was especially discouraging as I would be targeting males in college or high school, so money may be an issue.
WHAT: The service I'm offering would be utilized by people who wear jerseys as a fashion statement or in support of a favorite team or player. People who attend many sporting events or are fans of several teams can stand to save some money when it comes to showing their support. This is not a business for the casual or intermediate sports fan.
WHY: The biggest factor between those who would subscribe to a jersey-rental and those who wouldn't is level of fandom. If you're not interested in sports, you won't be likely to wear a jersey, ever. Socializing and Money also affect the consumer's interests but not nearly as much as fandom, in this situation.
Inside the Boundary Outside the Boundary
WHO Sports Fans Non-Sport fans
People with money to spare People who don't want jerseys
WHAT Fans looking for current jerseys Jersey Purchasing
Fans who don't want to buy a jersey Buying used jerseys
People who need a jersey for special occasion
WHY Cheap solution to expensive jerseys People don't need jerseys
Sports fans need to show their fandom Jerseys never drop in value
Thursday, September 20, 2018
Solving The Problem
The Opportunity: The opportunity I believe can be exploited is the need for a Jersey-Rental company. Authentic sports jerseys cost over $100 and often go underused as players get traded, injured, or retire. With the increasing popularity of fantasy football, the world cup, the NBA and March Madness, fans need a way to show their support for their favorite players while spending their money wisely.
The Solution: To solve this issue, I envision a subscription-based program that allows members to rent up to 2 jerseys at a time, and keep them for as long as they want. If they want a new jersey, all they have to do is send one of their current jerseys back. Our service would remove any concerns over players getting traded or injured; their is no purchase-risk with this program. I imagine the service costing anywhere from $10-$20 per month, as the company would be buying the jerseys wholesale from the Professional Leagues, then inventorying them and shipping them as quickly as possible to our members. A Student Plan is a likely addition to attract our younger sports fans who are commonly the most passionate fans about individual players. There could also be different memberships for how often you plan on renting a new jersey, or if you want to be able to rent more than two jerseys at a time. I even think there is potential for a "Buy-Now" price, where members have the option to buy jerseys at a discounted price after having them for a particular amount of time. The leagues should approve of this as it only spreads awareness and popularity for their business as well.
The Solution: To solve this issue, I envision a subscription-based program that allows members to rent up to 2 jerseys at a time, and keep them for as long as they want. If they want a new jersey, all they have to do is send one of their current jerseys back. Our service would remove any concerns over players getting traded or injured; their is no purchase-risk with this program. I imagine the service costing anywhere from $10-$20 per month, as the company would be buying the jerseys wholesale from the Professional Leagues, then inventorying them and shipping them as quickly as possible to our members. A Student Plan is a likely addition to attract our younger sports fans who are commonly the most passionate fans about individual players. There could also be different memberships for how often you plan on renting a new jersey, or if you want to be able to rent more than two jerseys at a time. I even think there is potential for a "Buy-Now" price, where members have the option to buy jerseys at a discounted price after having them for a particular amount of time. The leagues should approve of this as it only spreads awareness and popularity for their business as well.
Testing the Hypothesis, Part 1
Jersey-Rental Company
Opportunity: Sports drive our culture's daily life, including aspects of entertainment, socializing, and work. Team Identification is a psychological process where people feel the need to show off their fandom through jerseys and apparel, to identify their teams. Providing sports fans with a subscription-based jersey rental option would incentivize fans to rent jerseys for cheaper prices compared to the hundreds of dollars that a jersey would cost to buy.
WHO: Avid sports fans or anyone who needs a jersey for a social gathering based around sports.
WHAT: They are unable or unmotivated to spend a lot of money on purchasing jerseys at high prices.
WHY: No historical models of jersey-rental companies, seems like a solid idea.
Testing the Who: Jerseys are most popular among high school and college aged kids, and sports fans in general. They have become a fashion piece to show off. Tens of millions of people play fantasy football, make a march madness bracket, and go to parties for Super Bowls, World Cups, and the Olympics. These events make necessary a service that allows you to rent jerseys on your own schedule for a cheap monthly subscription.
Testing the What: Jerseys cost over $100 to purchase, and people want to be able to pay a small monthly amount for the option to select from every jersey in the world.Being able to rent a jersey or two at a time, and then return them in exchange for two new jerseys presents the ability to show off your new favorite player every week. Fantasy Football players want to be able to show support of their players each season, which is a massive market to tap into.
Testing the Why: Subscription-based payment programs are taking the world by storm. Music and Video streaming services utilize subscriptions, as well as even car rentals and shopping services. Subscription allows users to pay as they go, with the option to quit anytime they want to. This seems like an untapped market to take advantage of.
Interview 1: Steve
- Steve has played Fantasy Football for seven years, and in that time has purchased three NFL jerseys. "I no longer have the players I bought jerseys for. I don't want to spend the money on a jersey for one of my current players because I may not have him next year." Steve said he would use a subscription based service if the price were right. Steve also recommended utilizing this service for the NBA and other pro sports as well.
- Jeff is a sports addict. He plays in several fantasy football leagues, makes numerous March Madness brackets and is a diehard Boston Sports fan. "I no longer live in Boston, but I still want to show my support for the Sox, Celtics, Patriots and Bruins." Jeff added that he would spend up to $15-$20 per month for a service that allows him to swap jerseys as often as every week.
- For my interview with Scott, I was surprised to hear that although he plays in several fantasy leagues, he would not be interested in a jersey-rental service. "I don't ever wear sports jerseys, I'm much more of a casual sport fan." Obviously this service isn't for everyone, but I knew him to be a "sports addict" so I was thrown off by his interview.
- According to Brian, jerseys are all the rage in high schools across the country. "They were popular when I was in school, but now that I'm a substitute teacher, I see everyday how the jersey-obsession has exploded." Brian was concerned with how often he personally would use this service, but saw the potential among younger markets.
- As a Yankees fan, Cyrus loves his team, but doesn't know whose jersey to buy. "With a rental-type service, I could swap out jerseys until I found one that I liked. It's hard to buy a jersey when I don't know how long any of the players will be on the team." Cyrus said he'd be willing to spend up to $10 per month on something like this, which is about the equivalent of one NFL jersey price. He also recommended a student-pricing-plan to attract more kids.
- After conducting my interviews with some sports fans of differing enthusiasm, I learned that it will be difficult to gauge a specific target market outside of "general sports fans", as every person has different tastes. Obviously jerseys aren't for everyone, but I'd hope for potential support from different groups of people. Perhaps with more interviewing, a rounded hypothesis can be formed.
- I learned that sports will always be a dominant factor in our lives, as the five interviewees each showed a lot of passion for sport.
- It seems like a promising idea, but more research needs to be done into competitors, pricing, and general operation planning.
Friday, September 14, 2018
Identifying Opportunities in Economic and Regulatory Trends
1. Amazon is preparing to construct a second headquarters and is taking bids from select cities around the US. (Economic)
A: USA Today
B: This information suggests an opportunity exists, as an Amazon Headquarters would create a massive spike in jobs, property value, and would overall benefit the community.
C: The beneficiaries of this opportunity would be potential employees in the area, local businesses, and the real estate market.
D: For a prospective city, this opportunity is extremely difficult to exploit, as many cities are competing to win the Amazon bid.
2. Renewable Energy is becoming a popular choice over oil and gas, as California now requires every new home to have solar panels (Regulatory).
A: NPR
B: This information presents an opportunity for solar companies to get new customers. This also suggests that other states could follow California's lead on these new mandates.
C: Every new homeowner will be the prototypical customer of this opportunity.
D: For Solar Companies, This opportunity is easy to exploit, although competition could be an issue.
3. The US Economy is booming and shows no signs of slowing. This is a great opportunity for people looking to invest (Economic).
A: MarketWatch
B: Now is a great time to get into the market as the economy is performing so well.
C: The people to exploit this opportunity are current investors, people new to investing.
D: It is easy to start investing, but somewhat difficult to make money immediately!
4. NAFTA is in danger of being rebranded, or even completely thrown out, jeopardizing free trade among the US, Mexico, and Canada (Regulatory).
A: Wall Street Journal
B: If NAFTA falls through, national companies will have an advantage over tariff-stricken countries trying to import substitute products.
C: US customers will most likely buy more American-Made products, as the international tariffs will make traditional products more expensive.
D: This opportunity is difficult to exploit, as we don't know how the NAFTA negotiations will end yet.
A: USA Today
B: This information suggests an opportunity exists, as an Amazon Headquarters would create a massive spike in jobs, property value, and would overall benefit the community.
C: The beneficiaries of this opportunity would be potential employees in the area, local businesses, and the real estate market.
D: For a prospective city, this opportunity is extremely difficult to exploit, as many cities are competing to win the Amazon bid.
2. Renewable Energy is becoming a popular choice over oil and gas, as California now requires every new home to have solar panels (Regulatory).
A: NPR
B: This information presents an opportunity for solar companies to get new customers. This also suggests that other states could follow California's lead on these new mandates.
C: Every new homeowner will be the prototypical customer of this opportunity.
D: For Solar Companies, This opportunity is easy to exploit, although competition could be an issue.
3. The US Economy is booming and shows no signs of slowing. This is a great opportunity for people looking to invest (Economic).
A: MarketWatch
B: Now is a great time to get into the market as the economy is performing so well.
C: The people to exploit this opportunity are current investors, people new to investing.
D: It is easy to start investing, but somewhat difficult to make money immediately!
4. NAFTA is in danger of being rebranded, or even completely thrown out, jeopardizing free trade among the US, Mexico, and Canada (Regulatory).
A: Wall Street Journal
B: If NAFTA falls through, national companies will have an advantage over tariff-stricken countries trying to import substitute products.
C: US customers will most likely buy more American-Made products, as the international tariffs will make traditional products more expensive.
D: This opportunity is difficult to exploit, as we don't know how the NAFTA negotiations will end yet.
Thursday, September 13, 2018
Identifying Local Opportunities
Title 1: He managed the Keys Dairy Queen. Cops say he helped robbers stick it up
Article Link: Dairy Queen Robbery
Description: The manager of a Monroe County Dairy Queen has been arrested in relation to a robbery of the mentioned Dairy Queen restaurant. Samuel Murray was arrested along with two robbers after police discovered Murray had kept in constant contact with the robbers before and after the robbery. Suspicion arose after the robbers took the phones of all employees, except Murray.
Problem: The problem presented here is that this Dairy Queen franchise was seriously neglected by its owner, and the owner failed to hire a trustworthy staff.
Who has the Problem?: The Owner of the Dairy Queen has the problem. He or She needs to address how the franchise is managed and who they are hiring.
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Title 1: What happened to 'thousands of dollars' maybe missing from school's PTA?
Article Link: Miami School Missing Funds
Description: Luisa Bello, a Miami-Dade Administrative Director, reported thousands of dollars missing from a school PTA account. Several "strange transactions" were found during an audit, including car rentals in North Carolina. The School and the PTA are undergoing an audit to determine what may have happened to these funds.
Problem: The problem presented here is that this school district isn't operating smoothly, as thousands of dollars have mysteriously vanished.
Who has the Problem?: The problem is that of the school board and the PTA, whose job it is to manage the PTA and allocate funds accordingly.
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Title 1: Deaf immigrant facing deportation is ‘model citizen' with a ‘wide smile,' friends say
Article Link: Deaf Immigrant
Description: 48 year old Nigerian born Francis Anwana has lived in the US for 35 years, and is soon to be deported due to his student visa expiring after his graduation. Anwana faces having to return to where he is from if he can't get an extension on his visa.
Problem: Anwana is facing deportation if he is unable to secure a work visa/obtain citizenship.
Who has the Problem?: The problem is Anwana's, although people are defending him on social media.
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Title 1: Florence doubles in size as fierce Cat 4, headed toward Carolina coast
Article Link: Florence
Description: Hurricane Florence has double in size, growing to a Category 4 storm as of September 10. The storm is barrelling toward the Carolina coast, bringing surge waves as high as 20-40 feet. The storm is forcing millions to evacuate.
Problem: Carolinian's are faced with the life-threatening decision of staying to ride out the storm in their houses or to evacuate out of the storm's path. Evacuation is always the safest choice but many choose to protect their property instead.
Who has the Problem?: People living in the path of the hurricane have the problem of evacuating or staying sheltered.
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Title 1: Home Depot just recalled 210,000 of these hurricane helpers for possible shock hazard
Article Link: Home Depot Recall
Description: Home Depot is recalling 210,000 wet/dry vacuums this week due to exposed wiring, leading to a potential shock hazard. Home Depot is offering full refunds to anyone affected by Hurricane Florence.
Problem: A recall can severely impact Home Depot's finances, and this is especially dangerous as the hurricane hits.
Who has the Problem?: Home Depot has the problem of recalling these vacuums and either replacing them or refunding customers.
Article Link: Dairy Queen Robbery
Description: The manager of a Monroe County Dairy Queen has been arrested in relation to a robbery of the mentioned Dairy Queen restaurant. Samuel Murray was arrested along with two robbers after police discovered Murray had kept in constant contact with the robbers before and after the robbery. Suspicion arose after the robbers took the phones of all employees, except Murray.
Problem: The problem presented here is that this Dairy Queen franchise was seriously neglected by its owner, and the owner failed to hire a trustworthy staff.
Who has the Problem?: The Owner of the Dairy Queen has the problem. He or She needs to address how the franchise is managed and who they are hiring.
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Title 1: What happened to 'thousands of dollars' maybe missing from school's PTA?
Article Link: Miami School Missing Funds
Description: Luisa Bello, a Miami-Dade Administrative Director, reported thousands of dollars missing from a school PTA account. Several "strange transactions" were found during an audit, including car rentals in North Carolina. The School and the PTA are undergoing an audit to determine what may have happened to these funds.
Problem: The problem presented here is that this school district isn't operating smoothly, as thousands of dollars have mysteriously vanished.
Who has the Problem?: The problem is that of the school board and the PTA, whose job it is to manage the PTA and allocate funds accordingly.
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Title 1: Deaf immigrant facing deportation is ‘model citizen' with a ‘wide smile,' friends say
Article Link: Deaf Immigrant
Description: 48 year old Nigerian born Francis Anwana has lived in the US for 35 years, and is soon to be deported due to his student visa expiring after his graduation. Anwana faces having to return to where he is from if he can't get an extension on his visa.
Problem: Anwana is facing deportation if he is unable to secure a work visa/obtain citizenship.
Who has the Problem?: The problem is Anwana's, although people are defending him on social media.
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Title 1: Florence doubles in size as fierce Cat 4, headed toward Carolina coast
Article Link: Florence
Description: Hurricane Florence has double in size, growing to a Category 4 storm as of September 10. The storm is barrelling toward the Carolina coast, bringing surge waves as high as 20-40 feet. The storm is forcing millions to evacuate.
Problem: Carolinian's are faced with the life-threatening decision of staying to ride out the storm in their houses or to evacuate out of the storm's path. Evacuation is always the safest choice but many choose to protect their property instead.
Who has the Problem?: People living in the path of the hurricane have the problem of evacuating or staying sheltered.
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Title 1: Home Depot just recalled 210,000 of these hurricane helpers for possible shock hazard
Article Link: Home Depot Recall
Description: Home Depot is recalling 210,000 wet/dry vacuums this week due to exposed wiring, leading to a potential shock hazard. Home Depot is offering full refunds to anyone affected by Hurricane Florence.
Problem: A recall can severely impact Home Depot's finances, and this is especially dangerous as the hurricane hits.
Who has the Problem?: Home Depot has the problem of recalling these vacuums and either replacing them or refunding customers.
Friday, September 7, 2018
Forming an Opportunity Belief
1. For a few years now, I have felt that there is a need for an app or website that shows available bike racks in your area. Whenever biking somewhere new, I am always looking for a safe place to lock my bike, and it often takes time to find a good place.
2. There should be an easier way to discover available bike racks/ places to lock up other than mindlessly biking around your desired location. I have discussed this with several other active bikers in my social circles, and it has gotten unanimous support. Currently, there are some websites available that help find bike racks in larger metropolitan areas, but the majority of the population is still being neglected. I am 85% sure this problem/opportunity needs to be addressed.
3a. Prototypical Consumer named Cyrus.
4a. What is the exact nature of the need? "I own several valuable bikes, some for racing and some for casual, everyday use. When I go somewhere, I need to know that my bikes will be safe and secure."
When do they become aware of the need -- that is, do they experience their need all the time or only sometimes? "I only experience this need when I am somewhere foreign to me, where I do not know where to safely lock my bike."
How long have they had the need? "I have had this need for several years, since I left my hometown and arrived in Gainesville. I have since been several new places where I've brought along my bike."
When did they first become aware of their need? Why? "I first became aware of my need when I had to meet friends a few miles outside of my routine travel routes. I was frantically searching for a bike rack for longer than I care to admit."
How are they currently addressing their need? "I have grown accustomed to Gainesville, so I no longer face this challenge as often as I used to. However, when I go somewhere new I encounter the issue all over again."
How satisfied are they with this solution? "I would absolutely use an app or website to quickly discover safe and secure bike racks in my area. This would solve one of the more important parts of using a bike everyday."
3b. Prototypical Consumer named Nic.
4b. What is the exact nature of the need? "I ride every single day, and I have previously been stuck looking for a place to lock my bike safely."
When do they become aware of the need -- that is, do they experience their need all the time or only sometimes? "I only experience this need when I am somewhere busy or new to me."
How long have they had the need?"I would say I've had this problem for the past 6 years."
When did they first become aware of their need? Why? "I first became aware of this need when I arrived in Gainesville for my freshman year, and I had no idea where to go or what to do."
How are they currently addressing their need? "Since then, I have become pretty accustomed to locking my bike in a few trusted locations."
How satisfied are they with this solution? "It would be nice to know that I can lock up anywhere without worrying, so any source of help in that regard would be great."
3c. Prototypical Consumer named Charlie.
4c. What is the exact nature of the need? "I leave my bike unattended for weeks at a time, and I'd like to know that I can safely do so without worrying about it being stolen."
When do they become aware of the need -- that is, do they experience their need all the time or only sometimes? "I only experience this need when I am leaving town for extended periods. I normally keep my bike in my apartment otherwise."
How long have they had the need? "I have had this need for several months now, as I am splitting my time between Gainesville and Orlando recently."
When did they first become aware of their need? Why? "I first became aware of this issue when I was leaving town a few months ago, and was unable to leave my bike in my apartment. Space became an issue as I own several bikes and I needed to store my commuter bike outside somewhere safe."
How are they currently addressing their need? "I have since found a decent rack to lock up my bike outside, although I am still looking to find somewhere covered from the rain and wind and debris."
How satisfied are they with this solution? "I am somewhat satisfied with the situation currently. If I had a way of finding a covered location, I would be much more satisfied."
5. After speaking with three potential consumers, I am encouraged by their enthusiasm for my idea. I would obviously prefer to get more opinions if this were to hypothetically move forward, but this is a promising start to researching the current market for my idea. All three consumers provided excellent insight into what bikers are looking for, and what changes can be made to my idea.
Summary: I believe my opportunity is still very much intact. Additionally, I believe my idea is more accurate than when I started this exercise. Getting support from three dedicated bikers is incredible. I think entrepreneurs should be willing to adapt completely to what potential consumers would want. After all, they are your future target market, so you should cater to their needs.
2. There should be an easier way to discover available bike racks/ places to lock up other than mindlessly biking around your desired location. I have discussed this with several other active bikers in my social circles, and it has gotten unanimous support. Currently, there are some websites available that help find bike racks in larger metropolitan areas, but the majority of the population is still being neglected. I am 85% sure this problem/opportunity needs to be addressed.
3a. Prototypical Consumer named Cyrus.
4a. What is the exact nature of the need? "I own several valuable bikes, some for racing and some for casual, everyday use. When I go somewhere, I need to know that my bikes will be safe and secure."
When do they become aware of the need -- that is, do they experience their need all the time or only sometimes? "I only experience this need when I am somewhere foreign to me, where I do not know where to safely lock my bike."
How long have they had the need? "I have had this need for several years, since I left my hometown and arrived in Gainesville. I have since been several new places where I've brought along my bike."
When did they first become aware of their need? Why? "I first became aware of my need when I had to meet friends a few miles outside of my routine travel routes. I was frantically searching for a bike rack for longer than I care to admit."
How are they currently addressing their need? "I have grown accustomed to Gainesville, so I no longer face this challenge as often as I used to. However, when I go somewhere new I encounter the issue all over again."
How satisfied are they with this solution? "I would absolutely use an app or website to quickly discover safe and secure bike racks in my area. This would solve one of the more important parts of using a bike everyday."
3b. Prototypical Consumer named Nic.
4b. What is the exact nature of the need? "I ride every single day, and I have previously been stuck looking for a place to lock my bike safely."
When do they become aware of the need -- that is, do they experience their need all the time or only sometimes? "I only experience this need when I am somewhere busy or new to me."
How long have they had the need?"I would say I've had this problem for the past 6 years."
When did they first become aware of their need? Why? "I first became aware of this need when I arrived in Gainesville for my freshman year, and I had no idea where to go or what to do."
How are they currently addressing their need? "Since then, I have become pretty accustomed to locking my bike in a few trusted locations."
How satisfied are they with this solution? "It would be nice to know that I can lock up anywhere without worrying, so any source of help in that regard would be great."
3c. Prototypical Consumer named Charlie.
4c. What is the exact nature of the need? "I leave my bike unattended for weeks at a time, and I'd like to know that I can safely do so without worrying about it being stolen."
When do they become aware of the need -- that is, do they experience their need all the time or only sometimes? "I only experience this need when I am leaving town for extended periods. I normally keep my bike in my apartment otherwise."
How long have they had the need? "I have had this need for several months now, as I am splitting my time between Gainesville and Orlando recently."
When did they first become aware of their need? Why? "I first became aware of this issue when I was leaving town a few months ago, and was unable to leave my bike in my apartment. Space became an issue as I own several bikes and I needed to store my commuter bike outside somewhere safe."
How are they currently addressing their need? "I have since found a decent rack to lock up my bike outside, although I am still looking to find somewhere covered from the rain and wind and debris."
How satisfied are they with this solution? "I am somewhat satisfied with the situation currently. If I had a way of finding a covered location, I would be much more satisfied."
5. After speaking with three potential consumers, I am encouraged by their enthusiasm for my idea. I would obviously prefer to get more opinions if this were to hypothetically move forward, but this is a promising start to researching the current market for my idea. All three consumers provided excellent insight into what bikers are looking for, and what changes can be made to my idea.
Summary: I believe my opportunity is still very much intact. Additionally, I believe my idea is more accurate than when I started this exercise. Getting support from three dedicated bikers is incredible. I think entrepreneurs should be willing to adapt completely to what potential consumers would want. After all, they are your future target market, so you should cater to their needs.
My Entrepreneurship Story
My most personal experience with Entrepreneurship was back in the seventh grade, when my friends and I attempted to start a sports website. Similar to this blog, we would often write up different story-lines and quick statistic analysis; although it was quite amateur and unprofessional. As we were living in Massachusetts, the majority of our content was Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins-focused.
Although we attempted to share our work with classmates and the public, we never really focused on spreading the word. It was mainly for us, because we loved all things Boston and actually enjoyed writing and working together.
When I think of Entrepreneurship, the first image that comes to my mind is a door to door salesman. I think this is a negative image connotation, and I'm hoping that this course will change my mind about Entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship should encompass so much more than sales. It's about perseverance, tenacity, and a drive to succeed.
Although we attempted to share our work with classmates and the public, we never really focused on spreading the word. It was mainly for us, because we loved all things Boston and actually enjoyed writing and working together.
When I think of Entrepreneurship, the first image that comes to my mind is a door to door salesman. I think this is a negative image connotation, and I'm hoping that this course will change my mind about Entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship should encompass so much more than sales. It's about perseverance, tenacity, and a drive to succeed.
Tuesday, September 4, 2018
Bug List
20 things that bug me:
1. Commercials that become significantly louder than whatever show or movie I am watching on television.
This bug probably exists to get the audience's attention, however annoying it may be.
2. The O'Connell Center doesn't supply lids to soda fountain drinks.
This bug exists to be "Green", but in reality it is just a nuisance.
3. People who don't use a turn signal when driving.
These people are just lazy and dangerous on the road.
4. The excessive amount of commercials during College Football games is absurd.
This bug is obviously in order to get more revenue but it really hurts the entertainment.
5. The shake machine at every McDonald's seems to be permanently broken.
Is there a defect in the manufacturing or are the workers just lazy?
6. Concession prices at sports arenas are way too expensive.
I would buy more food and drink if the costs were cheaper.
7. College students who text while riding a motor scooter.
These people are crazy and are rolling the dice with their lives.
8. People who don't wear a helmet on scooters/motorcycles.
See explanation for #7.
9. Movie ticket prices have steadily increased.
The theaters want more money but it causes me to see fewer movies.
10. Radio/Spotify commercials that play siren noises are dangerous.
This is probably to get my attention but it distracts my driving.
11. "Convenience Fees" associated with online ticket purchases.
A recent Stubhub purchase for a $30 ticket came out to $65 after fees. Really?
12. Ignorant people who use their phone during a movie.
This just distracts everyone in the theater. Why did you come to the movie if you were going to text through it?
13. Hand dryers in bathrooms don't dry my hands.
Unless I have 5 minutes to stand there and furiously wave my hands.
14. Hot dogs and Hot Dog Buns are sold in unequal amounts.
The hot dog company and the hot dog bun company must be in agreement here.
15. I can't comprehend the exponential popularity of social media.
Why should I care about what you are doing every minute of every day?
16. Every media group creating their own Streaming Service is just another version of the Cable-War.
Now we have to pick between which streaming service to subscribe to.
17. People who barge into the elevator without letting people off first.
I suppose some people never learned how to properly use an elevator.
18. The construction of new sport arenas being payed for with taxpayer dollars.
Why should people who don't benefit from the arena have to pay for it?
19. Telemarketers calling my cell phone from similar/familiar phone numbers.
Telemarketers have adapted to reach us at anytime.
20. Companies that listen to my conversations through my phone and laptop.
The Advertising companies are getting smarter, but this borders on unethical.
Reflection
Upon completing the Bug List, I felt relieved to have thoughts of 20 ideas. After about 10 items it became increasingly difficult to come up with 10 additional items. It was difficult to keep coming up with new ideas while I was getting frustrated just thinking about what I had already written. If I were to have a #1 most infuriating thing, it would be the fact that apps are listening in on our conversations, searching for keywords to later show us in advertising across all platforms. It is a haunting part of our daily lives that seems to be unavoidable.
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