From 2b69171b1760fcf4667b0035e63a41ae5acb23e1 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Oleg Proskurin Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 19:59:51 +0700 Subject: [PATCH] feat: update positioning --- INDEX.md | 29 ++- execution/10-pricing-strategy.md | 131 +++++------ execution/16-product-features.md | 39 +++- execution/20-template-system.md | 212 ++++++++++++++++++ execution/21-validation-approaches.md | 271 +++++++++++++++++++++++ strategy/01-market-positioning-v3.md | 25 ++- strategy/13-competitive-analysis.md | 17 +- strategy/positioning-updates-jan-2026.md | 160 +++++++++++++ 8 files changed, 789 insertions(+), 95 deletions(-) create mode 100644 execution/20-template-system.md create mode 100644 execution/21-validation-approaches.md create mode 100644 strategy/positioning-updates-jan-2026.md diff --git a/INDEX.md b/INDEX.md index e0323af..38650e4 100644 --- a/INDEX.md +++ b/INDEX.md @@ -1,8 +1,8 @@ # Banatie Strategy Documentation Index -**Last Updated:** January 2, 2026 -**Total Documents:** 20 (numbered in strategy/execution) + research (prefixed) -**Next Available Number:** 20 +**Last Updated:** January 9, 2026 +**Total Documents:** 22 (numbered in strategy/execution) + research (prefixed) +**Next Available Number:** 22 **Project Stage:** Pre-launch / MVP Development --- @@ -35,8 +35,10 @@ - 18 - Production Infrastructure - 19 - Placeholder SEO Sprint +- 20 - Template System +- 21 - Validation Approaches -**Next to assign:** 20 +**Next to assign:** 22 --- @@ -144,6 +146,11 @@ Status: ✅ Validated - One product, multiple entry points Key insight: Direction 1 (Agencies) + Direction 2 (AI Developers) = SAME product Segments: A (Studios/Agencies), B (Power Users - PRIMARY), C (Freelancers), D (AI-Savvy Freelancers - SECONDARY) +**[Positioning Updates Jan 2026](strategy/positioning-updates-jan-2026.md)** (Jan 9, 2026) ⭐ NEW +*Critical positioning changes summary* +Status: ✅ Reference document +Covers: MCP/SDK/CLI = table stakes, Template System reframe, 70/30 allocation, Validation approaches + --- ## 🎯 Execution Documents @@ -204,6 +211,16 @@ Status: 🔄 Active Sprint Tracks: Landing page `/placeholder-images`, Docs `/docs/placeholders/`, Homepage quick wins Target: Zero-KD keywords + 14,800 vol main keyword +**[20 - Template System](execution/20-template-system.md)** (Jan 9, 2026) +*Reframed "Prompt Enhancement" as Template System* +Status: ✅ Strategic decision documented +Key: Granular enhancement, default = Photorealistic, Custom Templates = Pro paid feature + +**[21 - Validation Approaches](execution/21-validation-approaches.md)** (Jan 9, 2026) +*Catalog of 8 validation approaches with pros/cons* +Status: ✅ Reference document +Best balance: Discord AI Tools (⭐⭐⭐, 1-2 weeks) + ### Technical Documentation **[12 - Current Tech State](execution/12-the-current-tech-state.md)** (v1.0, Nov 1) @@ -426,5 +443,5 @@ research/seo-keyword-research-*.md → ROADMAP.md (Content Sprint) → blog arti --- **Last maintained by:** @men -**Version:** 4.3 (Placeholder SEO Sprint added Jan 2, 2026) -**Next review:** End of Placeholder SEO Sprint (mid-January 2026) +**Version:** 4.4 (Template System + Validation Approaches added Jan 9, 2026) +**Next review:** After validation approach selected diff --git a/execution/10-pricing-strategy.md b/execution/10-pricing-strategy.md index 74a4341..f28ed23 100644 --- a/execution/10-pricing-strategy.md +++ b/execution/10-pricing-strategy.md @@ -1,7 +1,7 @@ # Pricing Strategy: Banatie for AI Developers -**Date:** October 20, 2025 -**Version:** 2.0 (Hybrid model - Credits + Subscription) +**Date:** October 20, 2025 (Updated: January 9, 2026) +**Version:** 2.2 (Fixed encoding, Template System terminology) **Based on:** Oleg's personal feedback + Krea.ai model inspiration **Status:** Draft for validation testing @@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ ## Pricing Philosophy **Core insight from ICP research:** -> "Дискомфорт подписки в том, что я не регулярно пользуюсь сервисами и жалко денег когда не пользуюсь" +> "Дискомфорт подписки в том, что я не регулярно пользуюсь сервисами и жалко денег когда не пользуюсь" **Problem with traditional SaaS subscriptions:** - Episodic usage patterns (site in a weekend, then 2 months idle) @@ -42,19 +42,19 @@ - Basic transformations only **What's included:** -- ✅ REST API access -- ✅ MCP integration -- ✅ Prompt Enhancement -- ✅ CDN delivery -- ✅ @name references -- ✅ Basic transformations (resize, format) -- ✅ Generation history (30 days) +- ✅ REST API access +- ✅ MCP integration +- ✅ Template System (built-in templates) +- ✅ CDN delivery +- ✅ @name references +- ✅ Basic transformations (resize, format) +- ✅ Generation history (30 days) **What's NOT included:** -- ❌ No watermark removal -- ❌ Limited transformations (no custom presets) -- ❌ Priority queue (slower generation) -- ❌ Advanced features (when released) +- ❌ No watermark removal +- ❌ Limited transformations (no custom presets) +- ❌ Priority queue (slower generation) +- ❌ Advanced features (when released) **Revenue impact:** $0 (cost center) **Goal:** Convert 10-20% to paid within 30 days @@ -80,19 +80,19 @@ | 1,500 generations | | | | Bulk work | **What's included:** -- ✅ All Free tier features -- ✅ No watermark (production-ready) -- ✅ All transformations -- ✅ Extended history (1 year) -- ✅ Priority support (email, 48hr response) +- ✅ All Free tier features +- ✅ No watermark (production-ready) +- ✅ All transformations +- ✅ Extended history (1 year) +- ✅ Priority support (email, 48hr response) **What's NOT included:** -- ❌ Priority generation queue (Pro only) -- ❌ Advanced features (Pro only, when released) -- ❌ Monthly recurring generations +- ❌ Priority generation queue (Pro only) +- ❌ Advanced features (Pro only, when released) +- ❌ Monthly recurring generations **Why 90-day expiry:** -- Based on Oleg's Krea.ai feedback: "90 дней достаточно чтобы потом потратить остальное" +- Based on Oleg's Krea.ai feedback: "90 дней достаточно чтобы потом потратить остальное" - Long enough to not feel rushed - Short enough to encourage purchase when needed - Industry standard (Krea.ai, similar services) @@ -117,16 +117,17 @@ - OR $470/year (save $118 = 20% discount) **What's included:** -- ✅ 500 generations per month (included) -- ✅ All Credit Pack features -- ✅ Priority generation queue (2x faster) -- ✅ Advanced features (exclusive): +- ✅ 500 generations per month (included) +- ✅ All Credit Pack features +- ✅ Priority generation queue (2x faster) +- ✅ Advanced features (exclusive): - Flow-based generation (when released) + - **Custom Templates** (create your own enhancement templates) - Namespaces / project organization - On-demand URL generation - Custom style presets (future) -- ✅ Priority support (24hr response) -- ✅ Overage pricing: $0.10/gen (same as Starter pack) +- ✅ Priority support (24hr response) +- ✅ Overage pricing: $0.10/gen (same as Starter pack) **Why $49:** - Below Cloudinary ($89/month) @@ -154,13 +155,13 @@ |---------|------|---------|-----| | **Generations/month** | 10 | As purchased | 500 included | | **Watermark** | Yes | No | No | -| **MCP Integration** | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | -| **Prompt Enhancement** | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | -| **@name References** | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | -| **CDN Delivery** | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | +| **MCP Integration** | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | +| **Template System** | Built-in | Built-in | Built-in + Custom | +| **@name References** | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | +| **CDN Delivery** | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | | **Transformations** | Basic | All | All | -| **Priority Queue** | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ 2x faster | -| **Advanced Features** | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ Exclusive | +| **Priority Queue** | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ 2x faster | +| **Advanced Features** | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ Exclusive | | **Support** | Community | Email (48h) | Email (24h) | | **Price** | $0 | $20-100 | $49/mo | | **Best For** | Testing | 1-4 projects | Regular use | @@ -177,6 +178,7 @@ **Prompt Enhancement (Gemini 2.0 Flash):** - ~$0.001 per prompt (negligible) +- Note: This is the technical implementation powering Template System **CDN Bandwidth (Cloudflare):** - Free tier: 100GB/month @@ -195,11 +197,11 @@ ### Revenue Per Generation: **Free Tier:** -$0.040 (loss per image) -**Starter Pack ($20 / 200):** $0.10 per gen → **$0.06 profit** -**Builder Pack ($50 / 600):** $0.083 per gen → **$0.043 profit** -**Creator Pack ($100 / 1500):** $0.067 per gen → **$0.027 profit** -**Pro Subscription ($49 / 500):** $0.098 per gen → **$0.058 profit** -**Pro Overage:** $0.10 per gen → **$0.06 profit** +**Starter Pack ($20 / 200):** $0.10 per gen → **$0.06 profit** +**Builder Pack ($50 / 600):** $0.083 per gen → **$0.043 profit** +**Creator Pack ($100 / 1500):** $0.067 per gen → **$0.027 profit** +**Pro Subscription ($49 / 500):** $0.098 per gen → **$0.058 profit** +**Pro Overage:** $0.10 per gen → **$0.06 profit** --- @@ -257,13 +259,13 @@ **3. Decision Simplification:** - Only 3 paid options (not 6-7 like some competitors) -- Clear use case per tier (testing → projects → regular use) -- Easy to upgrade (credits → Pro seamless) +- Clear use case per tier (testing → projects → regular use) +- Easy to upgrade (credits → Pro seamless) **4. Commitment Gradient:** -- Free → try instantly (no credit card) -- Credits → low commitment (pay once, use when needed) -- Pro → higher commitment (monthly, but cancel anytime) +- Free → try instantly (no credit card) +- Credits → low commitment (pay once, use when needed) +- Pro → higher commitment (monthly, but cancel anytime) --- @@ -289,25 +291,26 @@ ## MCP Access Strategy (Revised) **Original plan:** MCP only for Pro tier -**Oleg's feedback:** "MCP должно быть бесплатно, это маркетинговая фича" +**Oleg's feedback:** "MCP должно быть бесплатно, это маркетинговая фича" -**New strategy: MCP on ALL tiers ✅** +**New strategy: MCP on ALL tiers ✅** **Why this is correct:** -1. **Viral adoption:** Developers try MCP → share with others → network effect +1. **Viral adoption:** Developers try MCP → share with others → network effect 2. **Can't restrict:** If API is open, community will build MCP anyway 3. **Marketing asset:** "First AI image gen with native MCP support" 4. **Trust building:** No artificial feature paywalls (developer-friendly) **How to monetize without MCP paywall:** -- Free tier: Limited generations (10/month) → forces upgrade -- Credits: Episodic users buy when needed → flexible revenue -- Pro: Heavy users subscribe → predictable MRR +- Free tier: Limited generations (10/month) → forces upgrade +- Credits: Episodic users buy when needed → flexible revenue +- Pro: Heavy users subscribe → predictable MRR **Features exclusive to Pro (after launch):** - Priority queue (2x faster generation) - Flow-based generation (complex workflows) +- Custom Templates (create your own) - Namespaces (project organization) - On-demand URL generation - Custom style presets @@ -335,11 +338,11 @@ Perfect for testing and small demos - 10 generations/month - MCP + API + UI access -- Prompt Enhancement +- Template System (built-in) - CDN delivery - Watermark on images -[Start Free →] +[Start Free →] --- @@ -356,7 +359,7 @@ Buy credits when you need them - Valid for 90 days - No recurring charges -[View Packs →] +[View Packs →] --- @@ -369,11 +372,11 @@ For regular builders and agencies - 500 generations/month included - Priority generation queue (2x faster) -- Exclusive features (Flow, Namespaces) +- Custom Templates + Exclusive features - $0.10 per additional generation - Cancel anytime -[Start Pro Trial →] +[Start Pro Trial →] --- @@ -406,13 +409,16 @@ A: Yes, 90 days from purchase. You'll get email reminders at 30 days and 7 days **Q: Is there an Enterprise plan?** A: Not yet. Contact us if you need >10K generations/month or custom features. +**Q: What's the difference between Template System tiers?** +A: All tiers get built-in templates (Photorealistic, Illustration, etc.). Pro tier adds Custom Templates — create and save your own enhancement templates for brand consistency. + --- ## Pricing Experiments (Post-Launch) ### Month 1-2: Validation - Test current structure -- Track conversion rates (Free → Credits, Free → Pro) +- Track conversion rates (Free → Credits, Free → Pro) - Identify most popular pack (likely Builder $50) ### Month 3: A/B Test @@ -440,7 +446,7 @@ A: Not yet. Contact us if you need >10K generations/month or custom features. - After strong PMF signals (low churn, high NPS) **When to decrease prices:** -- If conversion rate <5% (Free → Paid) +- If conversion rate <5% (Free → Paid) - If competitor undercuts significantly - If usage patterns show lower value perception @@ -570,7 +576,7 @@ Metadata: { included_credits: 500, overage_rate: 0.10 } ## Pricing Strategy: Key Decisions -### ✅ CONFIRMED: +### ✅ CONFIRMED: 1. **Hybrid model (Credits + Subscription)** - accommodates episodic AND regular users 2. **MCP on all tiers** - marketing asset, can't be restricted @@ -579,15 +585,16 @@ Metadata: { included_credits: 500, overage_rate: 0.10 } 5. **Watermark on free tier** - clear upgrade incentive 6. **$49 Pro tier** - positioned between dev tools ($20) and platforms ($89+) 7. **No fake scarcity** - transparent, developer-friendly pricing +8. **Template System on all tiers** - built-in templates free, Custom Templates = Pro -### â³ TO VALIDATE: +### ⏳ TO VALIDATE: 1. **Credit pack sizes** - are 200/600/1500 the right amounts? 2. **Pro inclusion (500 gens)** - is this the sweet spot or too low/high? 3. **Annual discount (20%)** - does this drive annual commitments? 4. **Overage pricing ($0.10)** - acceptable or feels like nickel-and-diming? -### ðŸ"® FUTURE: +### 🔮 FUTURE: 1. **Hobbyist tier ($10-20)** - if demand shows for lower entry point 2. **Agency tier ($149+)** - when agencies start adopting @@ -596,8 +603,6 @@ Metadata: { included_credits: 500, overage_rate: 0.10 } --- ---- - ## Alternative Approach: Single Tier Launch (For Consideration) Before launch, it's worth considering an alternative strategy: start with **one paid tier only** instead of three (Free, Credits, Pro). diff --git a/execution/16-product-features.md b/execution/16-product-features.md index 5ab8ca4..94f936c 100644 --- a/execution/16-product-features.md +++ b/execution/16-product-features.md @@ -1,30 +1,45 @@ # Product Features Overview -**Date:** November 2, 2025 +**Date:** November 2, 2025 (Updated: January 9, 2026) **Status:** 📝 Living document - feature roadmap -**Version:** 1.0 +**Version:** 1.1 (Template System = primary feature, Prompt Enhancement = technical implementation) --- ## Core Features (MVP) -### 1. Prompt Enhancement ⭐ PRIMARY MOAT +### 1. Template System ⭐ PRIMARY MOAT -**What:** AI improves user prompts for professional quality +**What:** User-facing feature for professional quality output + +**Under the hood:** Prompt Enhancement (AI improves prompts) — technical implementation that powers templates **How:** -- User provides generic prompt: "hero image for SaaS" -- System enhances: "Professional SaaS hero image, modern gradient background, clean UI elements, high contrast, 4K quality, corporate aesthetic" -- Gemini generates with enhanced prompt +- User selects template (Photorealistic default, or custom) +- System analyzes prompt for specified parameters (subject, style, lighting, etc.) +- Template applies **only** to missing details (granular enhancement) +- Detailed prompts pass through unchanged +- User always sees before/after comparison -**Status:** ✅ Working, always enabled +**Example - Short prompt:** +- Input: "hero image for SaaS" +- Template: Photorealistic (fills lighting, background, quality, composition) +- Output: Full professional prompt + +**Example - Detailed prompt:** +- Input: "Professional SaaS dashboard mockup, purple gradient, soft shadows, 4K" +- Template: Detects most params specified +- Output: Passes through mostly unchanged (adds only missing critical details) + +**Status:** ✅ Working (enhancement logic), needs template selector UI **Why it matters:** -- This is our main competitive advantage +- This is our main competitive advantage (3-6 months to replicate) - Justifies $0.10 vs $0.0006 commodity -- Users get professional quality without prompt engineering skills +- Users control output via template choice, not generic "enhancement" +- Intelligent analysis = unique, complex feature -**Cannot be disabled** - this is the value we sell +**Custom Templates = Pro tier paid feature** --- @@ -282,7 +297,7 @@ const features = await banatie.generate({ | Feature | Segment | Priority | Status | Days | |---------|---------|----------|--------|------| -| Prompt Enhancement | All | 🔴 Critical | ✅ Done | - | +| Template System | All | 🔴 Critical | ✅ Done | - | | 6 Aspect Ratios | All | 🔴 Critical | ✅ Done | - | | Prompt URLs | All | 🔴 Critical | ⏳ Todo | 3 | | MCP Server | B/D | 🟡 High | ⏳ Todo | 3 | diff --git a/execution/20-template-system.md b/execution/20-template-system.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..3040567 --- /dev/null +++ b/execution/20-template-system.md @@ -0,0 +1,212 @@ +# Template System + +**Date:** January 9, 2026 +**Status:** ✅ Strategic decision documented +**Version:** 1.0 +**Previous concept:** Prompt Enhancement (reframed, not replaced) + +--- + +## Executive Summary + +**What changed (MARKETING ONLY, not technical):** +- OLD: "Prompt Enhancement" = primary feature (Template System = detail of how it works) +- NEW: **Template System** = primary feature (Prompt Enhancement = technical implementation for those who want to understand deeper) + +**Prompt Enhancement still exists** — it's the AI that analyzes and improves prompts. We just reframed the hierarchy for better user communication. + +**Why reframe:** +- Better marketing: "Choose template" clearer than "we enhance your prompt" +- User control: User selects outcome style, not "trust us to improve" +- Explains mandatory nature: Template must always be selected (not "we won't let you disable") +- Solves stylization: Custom templates = paid feature (replaces need for separate styling system) + +--- + +## How Templates Work + +### User Experience + +1. User selects template (or uses default) +2. User writes prompt (any completeness level) +3. System applies template intelligently based on prompt completeness +4. Generation produces professional result + +### Template Logic + +**Default template:** Photorealistic (not "general") + +**Granular enhancement based on prompt completeness:** + +| User prompt | System behavior | +|-------------|-----------------| +| Short/vague | Full template enhancement applied | +| Partial (missing some details) | Fills only missing details | +| Detailed/specific | Passes through unchanged | + +**Example: Photorealistic template** + +Template specifies: camera type, lens, lighting, focus characteristics, etc. + +- **User writes:** "cat on table" + **System applies:** Full template (camera, lens, lighting, focus, composition) + +- **User writes:** "cat on table, deep focus, natural window light" + **System applies:** Camera and lens only (respects user's focus and light choices) + +- **User writes:** "cat on table, Canon EOS R5, 85mm f/1.4, shallow focus, golden hour backlight, rule of thirds composition" + **System applies:** Nothing (user specified everything) + +**Principle:** Respect user intent. If they specified something, don't change it. + +--- + +## Template Types + +### Built-in Templates (Free) + +| Template | Purpose | Key characteristics | +|----------|---------|---------------------| +| **Photorealistic** (default) | Real-world photos | Camera specs, lighting, focus, composition | +| **Illustration** | Digital art | Style consistency, color palette, line work | +| **3D Render** | Product visualization | Materials, lighting setup, render quality | +| **Icon/Logo** | Simple graphics | Clean lines, scalability, flat design | +| **UI Mockup** | Interface screenshots | Device frames, realistic UI elements | +| **Abstract** | Backgrounds, patterns | Color harmony, texture, visual flow | + +### Custom Templates (Paid Feature) + +**What:** Users create and save their own templates + +**Use cases:** +- Brand-specific style (colors, mood, composition rules) +- Project consistency (same visual language across all images) +- Agency presets (client-specific templates) + +**Pricing:** Pro tier feature (or separate add-on) + +**Why paid:** +- Requires storage (user templates saved) +- Advanced feature for power users +- Replaces need for separate "stylization" system +- Clear value differentiation + +--- + +## Technical Implementation + +### Prompt Analysis + +Before applying template, analyze user prompt for: +- Camera/equipment mentions +- Lighting descriptions +- Composition directions +- Style keywords +- Technical parameters (focus, exposure, etc.) + +### Template Application + +``` +finalPrompt = userPrompt + templateAdditions(excluding what user specified) +``` + +**Not:** +``` +finalPrompt = template.replace("{prompt}", userPrompt) // Wrong - ignores user specificity +``` + +### Template Storage + +**Built-in:** Hardcoded in backend +**Custom:** User account storage (Pro feature) + +--- + +## Migration from "Prompt Enhancement" + +### What stays the same: +- AI improves prompts automatically ✅ +- Professional quality output ✅ +- Works in any language ✅ +- Always enabled (mandatory) ✅ + +### What changes: +- **Naming:** "Prompt Enhancement" → "Template System" +- **Control:** System chooses enhancement → User chooses template +- **Granularity:** All-or-nothing → Intelligent partial application +- **Paid feature:** No paid enhancement option → Custom templates = paid + +### Documentation updates needed: +- [ ] Landing page copy +- [ ] API documentation +- [ ] Pricing page (custom templates = Pro) +- [ ] Marketing materials + +--- + +## Competitive Positioning + +### Why this is still a moat: + +1. **Intelligent partial application** - Complex to implement, competitors use simple template substitution +2. **Built-in quality templates** - Curated by us, tested for Gemini optimization +3. **Custom template creation** - Paid feature, requires UI and storage +4. **Prompt analysis** - Understanding what user specified vs. what to add + +### Time to replicate: 3-6 months (unchanged) + +Competitors would need to: +- Build prompt analysis system +- Create and test template library +- Implement granular application logic +- Build custom template UI + +--- + +## User Communication + +### How to explain to users: + +**Simple version:** +> "Choose a template that matches your desired style. We'll make sure your image looks professional." + +**Technical version:** +> "Templates provide baseline parameters (camera, lighting, composition). If you specify these yourself, we respect your choices. If you don't, we fill in the gaps with professional defaults." + +### FAQ additions: + +**Q: Can I disable templates?** +A: Templates ensure professional quality. You can override any aspect by specifying it in your prompt. + +**Q: Why is there a default template?** +A: Photorealistic is the most common use case. You can change it per request. + +**Q: Can I create my own templates?** +A: Custom templates are available on Pro tier. + +--- + +## Action Items + +### Immediate: +- [ ] Update landing page messaging (template language) +- [ ] Update API docs with template parameter +- [ ] Add template selection to UI + +### Technical: +- [ ] Implement prompt analysis (detect user-specified params) +- [ ] Implement granular template application +- [ ] Add template parameter to API + +### Future (Pro): +- [ ] Custom template creation UI +- [ ] Template storage per user +- [ ] Template sharing (optional) + +--- + +**Document owner:** @men + Oleg +**Last updated:** January 9, 2026 +**Related docs:** +- [16-product-features.md](16-product-features.md) - Feature overview +- [10-pricing-strategy.md](10-pricing-strategy.md) - Custom templates pricing diff --git a/execution/21-validation-approaches.md b/execution/21-validation-approaches.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ab2a1db --- /dev/null +++ b/execution/21-validation-approaches.md @@ -0,0 +1,271 @@ +# Validation Approaches Catalog + +**Date:** January 9, 2026 +**Status:** ✅ Reference document +**Version:** 1.0 +**Purpose:** Catalog of validation approaches with pros/cons for Oleg to choose + +--- + +## Current State + +- **Paying customers:** 0 +- **Interviews conducted:** 0 +- **API feedback received:** 0 +- **Product status:** MVP ready, validation flows partially ready + +--- + +## Validation Flows (What User Tests) + +| Flow | Status | Description | +|------|--------|-------------| +| **Flow 1: Live URLs** | ✅ Ready | Generate via URL params, no API key needed | +| **Flow 2: Lab UI** | TBD | Web interface for testing generations | +| **Flow 3: API Integration** | ✅ Ready | Full API with key, SDK, documentation | +| **Flow 4: MCP** | ❌ Not built | Claude/Cursor integration | + +--- + +## Validation Approaches + +### 1. Known Developer (Personal Network) + +**What:** Ask developers you already know to try Banatie + +**Reliability:** ⭐ (Low) +**Cost:** $0 +**Time:** 1 day + +**Pros:** +- Fastest possible feedback +- Will actually try it (personal relationship) +- Can ask deep follow-up questions + +**Cons:** +- Biased feedback (won't say "this is useless") +- May not be target ICP +- Small sample size +- "Friend favor" dynamic distorts honesty + +**Best for:** Technical sanity check, UX bugs, basic flow testing + +--- + +### 2. Telegram RU Communities + +**What:** Post in Russian-speaking dev communities + +**Reliability:** ⭐⭐ (Low-Medium) +**Cost:** $0 +**Time:** 2-3 days + +**Pros:** +- Native language = deeper conversations +- Some communities are active and engaged +- Can find specific niches (React, AI, etc.) + +**Cons:** +- Russian market ≠ global market (different pain points) +- Many communities are dead or low-quality +- May attract tire-kickers, not potential customers +- Language barrier limits global applicability + +**Best for:** Initial concept validation, Russian market exploration + +--- + +### 3. Daily.dev Personal Post + +**What:** Post on daily.dev as Oleg (personal brand, 5.2K rep) + +**Reliability:** ⭐⭐ (Medium-Low) +**Cost:** $0 +**Time:** 3-5 days + +**Pros:** +- Existing audience (5.2K reputation) +- Developer-focused platform +- Can test messaging +- Admin of 1.5K member squad + +**Cons:** +- Personal brand risk if product is bad +- One-shot (can't spam product posts) +- Engagement may be passive (likes, not signups) +- Platform algorithm may limit reach + +**Best for:** Awareness, traffic spike, testing headlines/positioning + +--- + +### 4. Discord AI Tools Communities + +**What:** Join Discord servers focused on AI coding tools (Claude, Cursor, etc.) + +**Reliability:** ⭐⭐⭐ (Medium-High) +**Cost:** $0 +**Time:** 1-2 weeks + +**Pros:** +- Exact ICP: developers using AI tools +- Real conversations, not just reactions +- Can observe pain points before pitching +- Multiple communities to test +- Global audience + +**Cons:** +- Need to build credibility first (can't just pitch) +- Time investment in community participation +- May get banned if too promotional +- Quality varies by community + +**Best for:** ICP validation, pain point discovery, warm outreach + +**Recommended approach:** +1. Week 1: Join, observe, help others +2. Week 2: Start mentioning Banatie when relevant +3. Week 3+: Direct conversations with interested devs + +--- + +### 5. jsjobs.ru Paid Interviews + +**What:** Pay for interviews with Russian developers + +**Reliability:** ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (High) +**Cost:** $50-100 (5-10 interviews × $10 each) +**Time:** 1 week + +**Pros:** +- Structured interviews with real developers +- Payment ensures commitment +- Can screen for specific profile +- Get deep feedback (30-60 min each) + +**Cons:** +- Cost (budget constraint) +- Russian market focus +- May attract interview-seekers, not product users +- Requires interview script preparation + +**Best for:** Deep ICP validation, detailed feedback on specific features + +--- + +### 6. Henry Warmup (Content Marketing) + +**What:** Build Henry persona presence, then soft-pitch Banatie + +**Reliability:** ⭐⭐⭐ (Medium-High) +**Cost:** $0 +**Time:** 2-3 weeks minimum + +**Pros:** +- Builds sustainable channel +- Attracts target audience organically +- No "spam" perception +- Can repurpose content across platforms + +**Cons:** +- Slow (need multiple posts before credibility) +- Requires consistent content production +- Indirect feedback (traffic, not conversations) +- Henry persona needs maintenance + +**Best for:** Long-term channel building, organic discovery + +--- + +### 7. SEO Organic Traffic + +**What:** Wait for organic search traffic to convert + +**Reliability:** ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very High) +**Cost:** $0 +**Time:** 1-3 months + +**Pros:** +- Highest quality signal (people searching for solution) +- Sustainable and scalable +- No manual outreach needed +- Validates market demand definitively + +**Cons:** +- Slowest approach +- Requires content + SEO investment upfront +- May not get enough volume for statistical significance +- Depends on keyword rankings + +**Best for:** End-goal validation, sustainable acquisition + +--- + +### 8. Product Hunt Launch + +**What:** Launch on Product Hunt + +**Reliability:** ⭐⭐⭐ (High for awareness) +**Cost:** $0 +**Time:** 1 month+ preparation + +**Pros:** +- High visibility spike +- Developer/tech audience +- Social proof from upvotes +- Press/blogger attention possible + +**Cons:** +- One-shot (can't re-launch easily) +- Requires preparation (assets, hunters, timing) +- Vanity metrics (upvotes ≠ customers) +- Post-launch depression (traffic drops) + +**Best for:** Awareness milestone, social proof, traffic spike + +--- + +## Decision Framework + +**Choose based on:** + +| Priority | Best approach | +|----------|---------------| +| Speed | #1 Known Developer | +| Quality feedback | #5 jsjobs Paid | +| ICP accuracy | #4 Discord AI Tools | +| Sustainability | #7 SEO Organic | +| One-time boost | #8 Product Hunt | +| Balance | #4 Discord AI Tools | + +--- + +## Not Included (Considered but Rejected) + +- **Reddit cold posts** — High ban risk, low reliability without reputation +- **Twitter/X outreach** — Requires follower base first +- **LinkedIn cold messages** — Low response rate, wrong audience vibe +- **Email cold outreach** — Spam perception, low conversion +- **Paid ads** — Premature for validation stage + +--- + +## Recommended Sequence + +**If Oleg wants structured approach:** + +1. **Week 1:** #1 Known Developer (sanity check) +2. **Week 2-3:** #4 Discord AI Tools (ICP discovery) +3. **Week 3-4:** #6 Henry Warmup (start content) +4. **Month 2:** #7 SEO Organic (wait for traffic) +5. **Month 3:** #8 Product Hunt (if signals are positive) + +**But:** Oleg decides. This is catalog, not prescription. + +--- + +**Document owner:** @men +**Last updated:** January 9, 2026 +**Related docs:** +- [ROADMAP.md](../ROADMAP.md) - Current phase and priorities +- [03-icp-research-questions.md](../research/03-icp-research-questions.md) - ICP definition diff --git a/strategy/01-market-positioning-v3.md b/strategy/01-market-positioning-v3.md index 27ba33e..0b71220 100644 --- a/strategy/01-market-positioning-v3.md +++ b/strategy/01-market-positioning-v3.md @@ -1,7 +1,7 @@ # Market Positioning & Strategy -**Date:** October 20, 2025 -**Version:** 3.0 (Major update - expanded ICP, realistic TAM/SAM, competitive analysis) +**Date:** October 20, 2025 (Updated: January 9, 2026) +**Version:** 3.1 (MCP/CLI repositioned as table stakes, Template System = primary feature) **Status:** Working hypothesis - requires validation through founder's use case + 10-15 external interviews **Previous versions:** - v1.0: Agencies-focused (archived) @@ -275,7 +275,7 @@ We ARE competing in "Production Image Infrastructure for Agentic Development" ($ | **MCP Integration** | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | 🔨 DIY | | **CLI Tool** | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | 🔨 DIY | | **REST API** | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | 🔨 DIY | -| **Prompt Enhancement** | ✅ Unique | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | +| **Template System** | ✅ Unique | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | | **@name References** | ✅ Unique | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | 🔨 DIY | | **Prompt URLs** | ✅ Unique | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | | **Permanent CDN** | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ Temp URLs | ❌ | 🔨 DIY | @@ -285,7 +285,9 @@ We ARE competing in "Production Image Infrastructure for Agentic Development" ($ | **Total Cost (TCO)** | $0.10 | $0.08-0.15 | $0.15-0.25 | $0.10-0.20 | $1-3 (time) | | **Setup Time** | 5 min | 10 min | 10 min | 15 min | 20-40 hours | -**Our unique value:** ONLY solution with complete developer workflow integration (MCP + CLI + API + Prompt URLs) + production pipeline (CDN + transformations + optimization) +**Our unique value:** Complete developer workflow (MCP + CLI + API + Prompt URLs) + intelligent Template System + production pipeline (CDN + transformations + optimization) + +**Note (Jan 2026):** MCP/CLI are now table stakes for developer tools. All serious competitors will have them by mid-2026. Our defensible moats are: Template System (intelligent prompt analysis), @references (consistency), Prompt URLs (unique), and complete production pipeline. --- @@ -298,7 +300,7 @@ We ARE competing in "Production Image Infrastructure for Agentic Development" ($ **What we BUILD:** -### 1. **Best Developer Experience (DX)** +### 1. **Complete Developer Experience (DX Suite)** - MCP integration (for Claude Code, Cursor, future tools) - CLI tool (for CI/CD, scripts, terminal workflows) - REST API (fully documented, with SDKs) @@ -307,17 +309,24 @@ We ARE competing in "Production Image Infrastructure for Agentic Development" ($ - Interactive docs with live examples - Fast, helpful support (Discord, email) +**Note (Jan 2026):** MCP/CLI/SDK collectively express "DX-first approach" but are NOT competitive advantages on their own. All serious competitors will have similar tools by mid-2026. The moat is in the *quality and completeness* of our DX suite, not individual tools. + **Moat:** Switching cost increases with integration depth. Once they've integrated Banatie into their workflow, moving to competitor requires re-coding, re-testing, re-deploying. --- ### 2. **Workflow Intelligence** -**Prompt Enhancement:** -- AI agent optimizes prompts automatically +**Template System (PRIMARY MOAT):** +- User selects template (Photorealistic default, or custom) +- System analyzes prompt for specified parameters +- Applies template only for missing details (granular enhancement) +- Detailed prompts pass through unchanged - Works in any language (Russian → English, etc.) -- Applies Gemini best practices - Shows before/after (educational) +- Custom templates = Pro tier paid feature + +**Technical implementation:** Prompt Enhancement (AI-powered prompt analysis and improvement). This is the "how it works" for technical users who want to understand the system. **Competitors don't have this** — they just pass raw prompts to model. diff --git a/strategy/13-competitive-analysis.md b/strategy/13-competitive-analysis.md index b296353..37c8755 100644 --- a/strategy/13-competitive-analysis.md +++ b/strategy/13-competitive-analysis.md @@ -1,8 +1,8 @@ # Competitive Analysis -**Date:** November 2, 2025 -**Status:** ✅ Updated with Runware + ImageKit research -**Version:** 1.0 +**Date:** November 2, 2025 (Updated: January 9, 2026) +**Status:** ✅ Updated - Template System = primary feature (Prompt Enhancement = technical implementation), MCP/CLI = table stakes +**Version:** 1.1 --- @@ -34,11 +34,14 @@ ## Our Competitive Advantages -### 1. Prompt Enhancement (PRIMARY MOAT) -- Generic → Professional quality +### 1. Template System (PRIMARY MOAT) +- Generic to Professional quality via intelligent templates +- Granular enhancement: only fills missing prompt details +- Custom templates = Pro tier paid feature - 3-6 months to replicate - Always enabled, not optional - This is what justifies $0.10 vs $0.0006 +- **Technical implementation:** Prompt Enhancement (AI analyzes and improves prompts) — the "how it works" for devs who want details ### 2. Consistency System (@references) - Style/object persistence across generations @@ -51,12 +54,14 @@ - Transformations (with focal point detection) - Zero manual work -### 4. Developer Experience +### 4. Developer Experience (DX Suite) - MCP (Cursor/Claude Code) - SDK (programmatic) - CLI (terminal) - Prompt URLs (universal) +**Note (Jan 2026):** MCP/CLI/SDK are table stakes for 2026. All competitors will have them. Our moat is the *completeness and quality* of DX, not individual tools. + --- ## Positioning vs Competitors diff --git a/strategy/positioning-updates-jan-2026.md b/strategy/positioning-updates-jan-2026.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7c32069 --- /dev/null +++ b/strategy/positioning-updates-jan-2026.md @@ -0,0 +1,160 @@ +# Positioning Updates - January 2026 + +**Date:** January 9, 2026 +**Status:** ✅ Strategic decisions documented +**Purpose:** Summary of critical positioning changes to apply across documentation + +--- + +## Critical Update #1: MCP/SDK/CLI Repositioning + +### Change + +**OLD positioning:** +> "First to MCP" as competitive moat +> MCP/SDK/CLI as unique differentiators + +**NEW positioning:** +> MCP/SDK/CLI/Lab = **table stakes** for 2026 +> Collectively they express "DX-first approach", not competitive advantage + +### Rationale + +- All serious competitors will have MCP in 2026 +- Can be replicated in 2-4 weeks by any team +- Like having documentation — expected, not special +- "First to market" advantage is temporary (months, not years) + +### What IS still defensible + +1. **Template System** — Intelligent prompt analysis + granular application (3-6 months to replicate) +2. **@references consistency** — Unique, complex (post-MVP) +3. **Production pipeline** — CDN + transformations included +4. **DX quality** — Sum of all tools + docs + support + +### Documentation updates required + +| Document | Section | Change | +|----------|---------|--------| +| 01-market-positioning-v3.md | Competitive table | Remove MCP/CLI from "unique advantages" | +| 01-market-positioning-v3.md | Moat strategy | Reframe: "Complete DX suite" vs competitors' partial | +| 13-competitive-analysis.md | Competitor features | Update comparison to show MCP as expected | +| 16-product-features.md | MCP section | Reframe as "must-have" not "differentiator" | + +--- + +## Critical Update #2: Template System (Marketing Reframe) + +### Change + +**OLD messaging:** +> "We enhance your prompts" +> (Sounds restrictive — "we change what you wrote") + +**NEW messaging:** +> "Choose a template that matches your style" +> (User control — "you choose, we help") + +### Key points + +- Template is always applied (mandatory) — but framed as "ensures quality" +- Default template: **Photorealistic** (not "general") +- Granular enhancement: + - Short prompt → full template applied + - Partial prompt → fills missing details only + - Detailed prompt → passes through unchanged +- Custom templates = **Pro tier paid feature** (replaces separate stylization system) + +### Full documentation + +See: [execution/20-template-system.md](execution/20-template-system.md) + +### Documentation updates required + +| Document | Section | Change | +|----------|---------|--------| +| 16-product-features.md | Prompt Enhancement | Rename to "Template System" | +| 10-pricing-strategy.md | Pro features | Add "Custom Templates" as paid feature | +| Landing page copy | Feature descriptions | Update messaging | +| API documentation | Enhancement parameter | Add template selection | + +--- + +## Critical Update #3: Resource Allocation (70/30) + +### Decision + +**70% effort:** SEO + Content (primary acquisition channel) +**30% effort:** API refinement + validation outreach + +### Rationale + +- Organic search = highest quality signal +- Content builds sustainable moat (competitors can't copy overnight) +- First Henry article published, pipeline validated +- API is "good enough" for validation flows + +### Implications + +- Don't over-engineer API features before validation +- Prioritize content production velocity +- SEO optimization is strategic, not tactical +- Direct outreach is secondary to organic discovery + +--- + +## Critical Update #4: Validation Approach + +### Current state + +- 0 paying customers +- 0 interviews conducted +- 0 API feedback received + +### Available validation flows + +| Flow | Status | +|------|--------| +| Live URLs | ✅ Ready | +| Lab UI | TBD | +| API Integration | ✅ Ready | +| MCP | ❌ Not built | + +### Approach catalog + +8 approaches documented with reliability/cost/time analysis. + +See: [execution/21-validation-approaches.md](execution/21-validation-approaches.md) + +### Next step + +Oleg decides which approach(es) to pursue. Recommendation: Discord AI Tools for best balance of reliability and speed. + +--- + +## Master Update Checklist + +### High Priority (affects positioning) + +- [ ] 01-market-positioning-v3.md — Remove MCP from unique advantages +- [ ] 01-market-positioning-v3.md — Update moat strategy section +- [ ] 13-competitive-analysis.md — Reframe competitor comparison +- [ ] 16-product-features.md — Rename "Prompt Enhancement" → "Template System" + +### Medium Priority (affects pricing/features) + +- [ ] 10-pricing-strategy.md — Add Custom Templates to Pro tier +- [ ] INDEX.md — Add documents #20, #21 +- [ ] ROADMAP.md — Update current phase description + +### Low Priority (can wait) + +- [ ] Landing page messaging updates +- [ ] API documentation updates +- [ ] Marketing materials refresh + +--- + +**Document owner:** @men +**Last updated:** January 9, 2026 +**Status:** Reference for documentation updates