From 60d019aff357bbf8fb9a761cdd257a87e5cce1e8 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Oleg Proskurin Date: Sun, 2 Nov 2025 20:11:16 +0700 Subject: [PATCH] feat: add research category --- CLAUDE.md | 53 +++-- INDEX.md | 190 ++++++++++++------ ROADMAP.md | 576 +++++++++++++++++++++++++---------------------------- 3 files changed, 435 insertions(+), 384 deletions(-) diff --git a/CLAUDE.md b/CLAUDE.md index 1b8dd07..325014a 100644 --- a/CLAUDE.md +++ b/CLAUDE.md @@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ ## ๐Ÿ“‚ DOCUMENTATION: STRUCTURE AND ACCESS **Location:** `/projects/my-projects/banatie-strategy/` -**Access:** Filesystem MCP (local files, not Project Knowledge) +**Access:** Filesystem MCP (local files) ### Folder Structure @@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ banatie-strategy/ โ”œโ”€โ”€ CLAUDE.md # This file - AI configuration โ”œโ”€โ”€ INDEX.md # Map of all documents โ”œโ”€โ”€ ROADMAP.md # Current status and priorities -โ”œโ”€โ”€ README.md # Project overview +โ”œโ”€โ”€ FRAMEWORK.md # Discussion framework โ”‚ โ”œโ”€โ”€ strategy/ # Strategic documents โ”‚ โ”œโ”€โ”€ 01-market-positioning-and-segments.md @@ -33,9 +33,15 @@ banatie-strategy/ โ”‚ โ”œโ”€โ”€ 10-pricing-strategy.md โ”‚ โ””โ”€โ”€ [other execution docs] โ”‚ +โ”œโ”€โ”€ research/ # Passive research (flat structure) +โ”‚ โ”œโ”€โ”€ method-*.md # Research methodology documents +โ”‚ โ”œโ”€โ”€ direction-N-*.md # Research directions (expandable) +โ”‚ โ”œโ”€โ”€ signals-*.md # Strong signals found +โ”‚ โ”œโ”€โ”€ analysis-*.md # Synthesis and discussion outcomes +โ”‚ โ””โ”€โ”€ MIGRATION-GUIDE.md # Guide for copying from Project Knowledge +โ”‚ โ”œโ”€โ”€ discussions/ # Strategic session history -โ”‚ โ”œโ”€โ”€ 2025-10-19-initial-strategic-session.md -โ”‚ โ””โ”€โ”€ [summaries of future sessions: YYYY-MM-DD-topic.md] +โ”‚ โ””โ”€โ”€ YYYY-MM-DD-topic.md โ”‚ โ””โ”€โ”€ backlog/ # Ideas and future topics โ””โ”€โ”€ 06-future-topics-backlog.md @@ -43,20 +49,23 @@ banatie-strategy/ ### File Naming Rules -**Numbering:** Sequential numbering across all documentation (01, 02, 03... 99) -- Each number is assigned once and never reused -- New documents get the next available number -- Deleted documents don't free up their numbers -- **Exception:** `discussions/` folder uses date-based naming (see below) +**Research folder (FLAT structure with prefixes):** +- `direction-N-name.md` - Research directions (N = reference number) +- `signals-name.md` - Strong signals and findings +- `analysis-name.md` - Strategic analysis and synthesis +- `methodology-name.md` - Research methodologies (if needed) +- `INDEX.md` - Overview and methodology -**Name format:** `{number}-{kebab-case-description}.md` -- Examples: `01-market-positioning.md`, `15-launch-strategy.md` -- Exceptions: Master files (CLAUDE.md, INDEX.md, ROADMAP.md, README.md) +**Main documentation (numbered):** +- Sequential numbering across strategy/ and execution/ (01, 02, 03... 99) +- Each number assigned once, never reused +- Format: `{number}-{kebab-case-description}.md` +- Exceptions: Master files (CLAUDE.md, INDEX.md, ROADMAP.md, FRAMEWORK.md) -**Discussions folder format:** `YYYY-MM-DD-{kebab-case-topic}.md` -- Examples: `2025-10-19-initial-strategic-session.md`, `2025-11-15-pricing-review.md` -- Discussions are excluded from cross-project numbering -- Chronological sorting by date for session history +**Discussions folder:** +- Format: `YYYY-MM-DD-{kebab-case-topic}.md` +- Chronological sorting by date +- Excluded from cross-project numbering **Status in document header:** - โœ… Validated - confirmed through research/data @@ -71,7 +80,7 @@ banatie-strategy/ ### Session Initialization -**Step 1:** Read 3 mandatory files (in this order): +**Step 1:** Read mandatory files (in this order): 1. `ROADMAP.md` - current priorities and active sprint 2. `INDEX.md` - document map and quick links 3. `CLAUDE.md` - this file for understanding structure @@ -127,11 +136,12 @@ banatie-strategy/ **Where to save:** - Strategic decisions โ†’ `strategy/` - Plans and execution โ†’ `execution/` +- Research findings โ†’ `research/` (with appropriate prefix) - Session summaries โ†’ `discussions/` - Future ideas โ†’ `backlog/` **After creation:** -1. Assign next available number +1. Assign next available number (if strategy/ or execution/) 2. Add to INDEX.md 3. Cross-link with relevant docs 4. Update ROADMAP.md if affects priorities @@ -163,9 +173,10 @@ banatie-strategy/ 7. Updates ROADMAP.md (if action items exist) **Where to save:** -- Strategic session summary โ†’ `discussions/YYYY-MM-DD-{topic}.md` (date-based, no number) +- Strategic session โ†’ `discussions/YYYY-MM-DD-{topic}.md` (date-based) - New strategic decision โ†’ `strategy/{number}-{topic}.md` - Execution plan โ†’ `execution/{number}-{topic}.md` +- Research โ†’ `research/{prefix}-{topic}.md` - Future idea โ†’ `backlog/{number}-{topic}.md` **When to use:** At the end of each significant discussion @@ -218,6 +229,6 @@ banatie-strategy/ --- -**Last updated:** 2024-10-30 -**Version:** 2.0 +**Last updated:** November 2, 2025 +**Version:** 2.1 **Owner:** @men + Oleg diff --git a/INDEX.md b/INDEX.md index a43944a..b60750f 100644 --- a/INDEX.md +++ b/INDEX.md @@ -1,19 +1,20 @@ # Banatie Strategy Documentation Index -**Last Updated:** 2025-11-01 -**Total Documents:** 13 (numbered) + discussions (date-based) -**Next Available Number:** 12 (or 15 if keeping 12-14 reserved) +**Last Updated:** November 2, 2025 +**Total Documents:** 13 (numbered in strategy/execution) + research (prefixed) +**Next Available Number:** 13 **Project Stage:** Pre-launch / ICP Validation --- ## ๐Ÿ“Š Numbering System -**Rule:** Sequential numbering across all documentation (01-99) +**Rule:** Sequential numbering for strategy/ and execution/ folders (01-99) - Each number is used only once - New document = next available number - Deleted documents don't free up numbers -- **Exception:** `discussions/` folder uses date-based format (YYYY-MM-DD-topic.md) +- **Exception:** `discussions/` uses date-based format (YYYY-MM-DD-topic.md) +- **Exception:** `research/` uses flat structure with prefixes (direction-, signals-, analysis-) **Currently Used:** - 01 - Market Positioning @@ -27,10 +28,6 @@ - 11 - Technical Architecture - 12 - Current Tech State -**Released from numbering:** -- ~~04~~ - Moved to discussions/ with date-based naming -- ~~05~~ - Never created, number freed - **Next to assign:** 13 --- @@ -40,12 +37,43 @@ **For new sessions START HERE:** - [ROADMAP.md](ROADMAP.md) - Current priorities and status - [Reality Check](strategy/02-reality-check.md) - Founder constraints -- [Validated ICP](strategy/07-validated-icp-ai-developers.md) - Target audience +- [Research Methodology](research/method-passive-research.md) - Passive research guide **For strategic decisions:** - [Market Positioning](strategy/01-market-positioning-and-segments.md) +- [Validated ICP](strategy/07-validated-icp-ai-developers.md) +- [ICP Segmentation A/B/C/D](research/analysis-icp-segmentation-abcd.md) + +**For execution:** - [Pricing Strategy](execution/10-pricing-strategy.md) - [MVP Scope](execution/09-mvp-scope.md) +- [Validation Plan](execution/08-validation-plan.md) + +--- + +## ๐Ÿ“‚ Core Documentation + +### Master Files + +**[CLAUDE.md](CLAUDE.md)** +*AI assistant configuration, folder structure, commands* +Status: ๐Ÿ“ Living document +Purpose: Guide for @men on how to work with documentation + +**[INDEX.md](INDEX.md)** (this file) +*Complete map of all documents* +Status: ๐Ÿ“ Living document +Purpose: Navigation and quick reference + +**[ROADMAP.md](ROADMAP.md)** +*Current status, active sprint, milestones* +Status: ๐Ÿ“ Living document +Purpose: Track progress and priorities + +**[FRAMEWORK.md](FRAMEWORK.md)** +*Discussion and documentation best practices* +Status: ๐Ÿ“ Living document +Purpose: Guide for strategic sessions with @men --- @@ -56,23 +84,22 @@ **[01 - Market Positioning](strategy/01-market-positioning-and-segments.md)** (v2.0, Oct 20) *Positioning, competitors, market size ($25B+ dev tools)* Status: โœ… Validated -Key insight: We're NOT in "AI Image Generation" ($400M) - we're in "Developer Tools for AI-Powered Development" ($25B+ subset) +Key insight: We're in "Developer Tools for AI-Powered Development" ($25B+ subset) **[02 - Reality Check](strategy/02-reality-check.md)** (Oct 19) *Founder situation, financial goals, constraints* Status: ๐Ÿ“ Living document, review monthly -Critical: Solo founder, family of 5, $6K/month sole income, 15-20 hrs/week available, newborn (Kirill, Oct 7, 2024) +Critical: Solo founder, family of 5, $6K/month sole income, 15-20 hrs/week available **[07 - Validated ICP](strategy/07-validated-icp-ai-developers.md)** (v1.0, Oct 20) *AI-powered developers as primary ICP* Confidence: HIGH (80%) - founder IS the ICP -Target: Developers using Claude Code/Cursor who build web projects regularly +Target: Developers using Claude Code/Cursor who build web projects -**[11 - Technical Architecture](strategy/11-technical-architecture.md)** (v1.0, Nov 1) -*Platform architecture, tech stack, 6-stage pipeline, MVP release strategy* -Status: โœ… Validated -Stack: Express, Next.js, Gemini 2.5 Flash Image, MinIO, PostgreSQL, Cloudflare, Imageflow -Key differentiators: Flow-based generation, on-demand URL generation, @name references, transformation pipeline +**[11 - Technical Architecture](strategy/11-technical-architecture.md)** (v1.0, Nov 1) +*Platform architecture, tech stack, 6-stage pipeline* +Status: โœ… Validated +Stack: Express, Next.js, Gemini 2.5 Flash, MinIO, PostgreSQL, Cloudflare --- @@ -81,52 +108,86 @@ Key differentiators: Flow-based generation, on-demand URL generation, @name refe ### Validation & Launch Planning **[03 - ICP Research Questions](execution/03-icp-research-questions.md)** (v2.0, Oct 20) -*Interview script, validation framework for AI developers* +*Interview script, validation framework* Status: ๐Ÿ”„ In use - validation in progress -Goal: 10-15 interviews to validate willingness to use + pay +Goal: 10-15 interviews to validate willingness to pay **[08 - Validation Plan](execution/08-validation-plan.md)** (Oct 20) -*2-week sprint plan, 10-15 interviews, stealth outreach strategy* +*2-week sprint plan, 10-15 interviews, stealth outreach* Timeline: Oct 20 - Nov 3, 2025 -Channels: Reddit (r/ClaudeAI, r/ChatGPTCoding), Indie Hackers, Discord +Channels: Reddit, Indie Hackers, Discord **[09 - MVP Scope](execution/09-mvp-scope.md)** (Oct 20) -*Must-have features, 4-6 week dev timeline, launch criteria* +*Must-have features, 4-6 week dev timeline* Status: โณ Pending validation results -Core features: MCP integration, Prompt Enhancement, CDN delivery, @name references, credit payments +Core: MCP integration, Prompt Enhancement, CDN, @references **[10 - Pricing Strategy](execution/10-pricing-strategy.md)** (v2.0, Oct 20) -*Hybrid model: Credits + Subscription, based on Oleg's feedback* +*Hybrid model: Credits + Subscription* Tiers: -- Free: 10 gens/month (with watermark) -- Credits: $20-100 for 200-1500 gens (90-day expiry) -- Pro: $49/month for 500 gens + exclusive features +- Free: 10 gens/month (watermark) +- Credits: $20-100 for 200-1500 gens +- Pro: $49/month for 500 gens -### Technical Appendices +### Technical Documentation -**[12 - Current Tech State](execution/12-the-current-tech-state.md)** (v1.0, Nov 1) -*Business-focused overview of platform capabilities and market readiness* -Status: ๐Ÿ“ Working Document (updates as features complete) -Key insight: Platform mostly production-ready with core features operational. Gaps: DB integration, transformations, CDN, VPS deployment, marketing landing. +**[12 - Current Tech State](execution/12-the-current-tech-state.md)** (v1.0, Nov 1) +*Business-focused overview of platform capabilities* +Status: ๐Ÿ“ Working Document +Key: Platform mostly production-ready, gaps identified -**[Appendix 1](execution/appendex1.md)** - SDK code examples -Flow-based generation, on-demand URL generation patterns +**[Appendix 1](execution/appendex1.md)** - SDK code examples +**[Appendix 2](execution/appendex2.md)** - Use cases & conversion -**[Appendix 2](execution/appendex2.md)** - Use cases & conversion strategy -Target scenarios, UI proposal, MVP requirements +--- + +## ๐Ÿ”ฌ Research Documents + +**See:** [research/method-passive-research.md](research/method-passive-research.md) for detailed methodology + +### Research Structure (Flat with Prefixes) + +**Methodology:** +- [method-passive-research.md](research/method-passive-research.md) - Complete research guide + +**Directions:** +- [direction-1-agencies-placeholder-hell.md](research/direction-1-agencies-placeholder-hell.md) +- [direction-2-ai-coding-agents.md](research/direction-2-ai-coding-agents.md) โญ STRONGEST +- [direction-6-gemini-ecommerce.md](research/direction-6-gemini-ecommerce.md) +- *(Additional directions from Project Knowledge to be added)* + +**Signals:** +- [signals-summary.md](research/signals-summary.md) - Aggregate findings +- *(Copy from Project Knowledge: direction-1/2/6-strong-signals.md)* + +**Analysis:** +- [analysis-icp-segmentation-abcd.md](research/analysis-icp-segmentation-abcd.md) โญ NEW - A/B/C/D framework + +### Key Research Insights + +**Direction 2 (AI Coding Agents): 70-80% confidence** โญ +- ICP match = excellent (founder IS the ICP) +- Market size = huge (36K+ r/cursor members) +- Willingness to pay = validated ($20-200/mo) +- Technical fit = perfect (MCP + SDK) + +**ICP Segmentation (A/B/C/D):** +- **A:** Studios/Agencies (CEO decision) - Direction 1 focus +- **B:** Power Users (Tech leads with Cursor) - Direction 2 PRIMARY +- **C:** Freelancers (Solo decision) - Cross-direction +- **D:** AI-savvy Freelancers - Direction 2 SECONDARY --- ## ๐Ÿ’ฌ Discussion History -**Note:** Discussions use date-based naming (YYYY-MM-DD-topic.md), excluded from cross-project numbering. +**Note:** Discussions use date-based naming (YYYY-MM-DD-topic.md) -**[2025-10-19 - Initial Strategic Session](discussions/2025-10-19-initial-strategic-session.md)** -*First strategic session - 2 hours with @men* +**[2025-10-19 - Initial Strategic Session](discussions/2025-10-19-initial-strategic-session.md)** +*First strategic session - 2 hours with @men* Outcomes: -- ICP direction clarified (AI developers, not agencies initially) -- Pricing model validated (hybrid credits + subscription) -- Reality check documented (constraints, timeline, financial goals) +- ICP direction clarified (AI developers) +- Pricing model validated (hybrid) - Documentation framework established --- @@ -136,8 +197,8 @@ Outcomes: **[06 - Future Topics](backlog/06-future-topics-backlog.md)** (Oct 19) *Upcoming discussions prioritized by urgency* Current priorities: -- Soon: MVP scope finalization, pricing finalization, pre-launch strategy -- Eventually: Social media strategy, Google Ads, employer discovery risk management ("ัะฒะตั‡ะตะฝะธะต ั„ะตะนัะฐ") +- Soon: MVP scope finalization, pre-launch strategy +- Eventually: Social media, Google Ads, employer risk management --- @@ -145,12 +206,12 @@ Current priorities: ### Critical path for new @men sessions: ``` -ROADMAP.md โ†’ 02-reality-check.md โ†’ 07-validated-icp.md โ†’ [relevant execution doc] +ROADMAP.md โ†’ 02-reality-check.md โ†’ research/method-passive-research.md โ†’ research/analysis-icp-segmentation-abcd.md ``` ### For strategic pivots: ``` -01-market-positioning.md โ†’ discussions/2025-10-19-initial-strategic-session.md โ†’ 06-future-topics-backlog.md +01-market-positioning.md โ†’ research/signals-summary.md โ†’ research/analysis-icp-segmentation-abcd.md โ†’ 07-validated-icp.md ``` ### For tactical execution: @@ -182,20 +243,19 @@ ROADMAP.md โ†’ 02-reality-check.md โ†’ 07-validated-icp.md โ†’ [relevant executi - MVP Scope (09) - what's realistic in 4-6 weeks - Pricing Strategy (10) - break-even requirements ($100-500 MRR) -**Validated ICP (07) drives:** -- ICP Research Questions (03) - interview script +**Research (research/) validates:** +- Validated ICP (07) - external confirmation +- ICP Segmentation (research/analysis-icp-segmentation-abcd.md) +- Interview Questions (03) - pain points to validate - Validation Plan (08) - where to find respondents -- MVP Scope (09) - which features matter most -- Pricing Strategy (10) - willingness to pay validation **Technical Architecture (11) + Current Tech State (12) define:** -- What the platform can do (architecture + implementation status) -- MVP Scope (09) - what MUST be built vs. what's already done -- Validation Plan (08) - which features to showcase in interviews -- Launch readiness - gap analysis between current state and market needs +- What platform can do (architecture + implementation status) +- MVP Scope (09) - what MUST be built vs already done +- Launch readiness - gap analysis -**Discussion Framework (05) guides:** -- All future strategic sessions +**Discussion Framework (FRAMEWORK.md) guides:** +- All strategic sessions - Documentation creation process - Decision-making workflows @@ -215,7 +275,13 @@ ROADMAP.md โ†’ 02-reality-check.md โ†’ 07-validated-icp.md โ†’ [relevant executi - Marketing campaigns - Sales processes -**Session summaries** โ†’ `discussions/` (use date-based format: YYYY-MM-DD-topic.md) +**Research findings** โ†’ `research/` (use prefixes) +- `direction-N-*.md` - Research directions +- `signals-*.md` - Strong signals found +- `analysis-*.md` - Strategic analysis +- `methodology-*.md` - Research methods (if needed) + +**Session summaries** โ†’ `discussions/` (date-based: YYYY-MM-DD-topic.md) - Strategic planning sessions - Major decision meetings - Retrospectives @@ -230,13 +296,13 @@ ROADMAP.md โ†’ 02-reality-check.md โ†’ 07-validated-icp.md โ†’ [relevant executi **Navigation tip:** Use Ctrl+F to search by topic, document name, or status emoji. **Maintenance:** Update this INDEX.md whenever: -- New document created (assign next number, add to relevant section) +- New document created (assign number/prefix, add to section) - Document status changes (update emoji and notes) -- New relationships identified (add to Dependencies section) -- Quarterly review (prune deprecated docs, reorganize if needed) +- New relationships identified (add to Dependencies) +- Quarterly review (prune deprecated docs, reorganize) --- **Last maintained by:** @men -**Version:** 2.0 +**Version:** 3.0 (research folder restructured to flat + prefixes) **Next review:** After ICP validation complete (Nov 3, 2025) diff --git a/ROADMAP.md b/ROADMAP.md index fe2459c..f56af49 100644 --- a/ROADMAP.md +++ b/ROADMAP.md @@ -6,248 +6,169 @@ - โœ… **Completed tasks:** Record actual completion date - ๐Ÿ”„ **In progress:** Show start date + estimated duration -- ๐Ÿ“… **Future tasks:** Show estimated duration only (e.g., "2-4 weeks", "3 months") -- ๐ŸŽฏ **Milestones:** Relative timeframes from key decision points (e.g., "Month 3 after validation") +- ๐Ÿ“… **Future tasks:** Show estimated duration only +- ๐ŸŽฏ **Milestones:** Relative timeframes from key decision points -**Why:** With 15-20 hrs/week availability, fixed deadlines create false pressure. Relative estimates allow flexibility while tracking actual velocity for better future planning. +**Why:** With 15-20 hrs/week availability, fixed deadlines create false pressure. --- ## ๐ŸŽฏ Current Status -**Phase:** Pre-launch / ICP Validation -**Version:** 1.1 -**Next Milestone:** Complete ICP External Validation +**Phase:** Pre-launch / ICP Validation +**Sprint:** Interview Preparation (Day 1 of 2) +**Focus:** A/B/C/D Segmentation Framework Complete +**Next Milestone:** Begin validation interviews (10-14 across segments) +**Last Updated:** November 2, 2025 --- -## โœ… Completed Sprint: Foundation (Oct 20 - Oct 30) +## โœ… Completed: Foundation (Oct 20 - Oct 30) -### โœ… COMPLETED -- [x] Market positioning clarified (Completed: Oct 25, 2025) -- [x] ICP hypothesis validated internally - founder IS the ICP (Completed: Oct 28, 2025) -- [x] Pricing strategy drafted - hybrid credits + subscription model (Completed: Oct 29, 2025) -- [x] MVP scope defined - MCP + core features (Completed: Oct 30, 2025) -- [x] Documentation framework established - filesystem MCP approach (Completed: Oct 30, 2025) +- [x] Market positioning clarified (Oct 25, 2025) +- [x] ICP hypothesis validated internally (Oct 28, 2025) +- [x] Pricing strategy drafted (Oct 29, 2025) +- [x] MVP scope defined (Oct 30, 2025) +- [x] Documentation framework established (Oct 30, 2025) --- -## ๐Ÿ”„ Active Sprint: ICP External Validation +## โœ… Completed: Passive Research Phase 1 (Oct 31 - Nov 2) -**Started:** Oct 31, 2025 -**Est. duration:** 2 weeks -**Owner:** Oleg +- [x] Direction 1 research (Agencies + Placeholder Hell) - Strong signals +- [x] Direction 2 research (AI Coding Agents) - โญ STRONGEST validation +- [x] Direction 6 research (Gemini/E-commerce) - Parking lot (ICP mismatch) +- [x] A/B/C/D segmentation framework created +- [x] Research documentation restructured (flat + prefixes) -### Status -- Interviews completed: **0 / 10** -- Decision: GO/PIVOT/STOP pending +**Key Outcomes:** +- Direction 2 = 70-80% confidence (AI coding agents) +- ICP refined to 4 segments: A/B/C/D +- Technical product = same for all segments +- GTM differs by segment (messaging, pricing, channels) + +--- + +## ๐Ÿ”„ Active Sprint: Interview Preparation (Nov 2 - Nov 3) + +**Goal:** Prepare for 10-14 validation interviews across A/B/C/D segments ### Tasks -- [ ] Create throwaway Reddit account (stealth mode) -- [ ] Post in r/ClaudeAI: "How do you handle images in Claude Code?" -- [ ] Post in r/ChatGPTCoding: "AI-assisted devs: image generation workflow?" -- [ ] Conduct 10-15 text-based interviews via DM -- [ ] Fill validation scorecard after each interview -- [ ] Make GO/PIVOT/STOP decision based on results - -### โธ๏ธ BLOCKED / WAITING -- [ ] MVP development (blocked by: need confirmed feature priorities from validation) -- [ ] Beta user outreach (blocked by: need validated messaging) -- [ ] Pricing finalization (blocked by: need ICP confirmation of willingness to pay) +- [ ] Create interview scripts for each segment (4 scripts) + - [ ] A: Studios/Agencies (CEO/Manager) + - [ ] B: Power Users (Tech leads with Cursor) + - [ ] C: Freelancers (Solo) + - [ ] D: AI-savvy Freelancers +- [ ] Identify specific outreach targets: + - [ ] B: r/cursor Discord members, specific power users + - [ ] D: Twitter #AIFreelancer list (20-30 profiles) + - [ ] A: LinkedIn agency CEOs (50-100 list) + - [ ] C: Upwork active freelancers, r/freelance members +- [ ] Prepare validation scorecard (track by segment) +- [ ] Plan outreach timeline (7-day sprint schedule) --- -## ๐Ÿ“… Upcoming Milestones +## ๐Ÿ“… Upcoming Sprint: External Validation (Nov 4 - Nov 10) -### Post-Validation Phase (1-2 weeks after validation decision) +**Est. duration:** 7 days +**Owner:** Oleg -**IF GO decision (60%+ willing to use, 40%+ willing to pay $20+):** -- [ ] Finalize MVP scope based on validated top 3 needs from interviews -- [ ] Begin MCP server development -- [ ] Prepare beta access list from interviews (early adopters identified) -- [ ] Plan soft launch strategy (Reddit post schedule, messaging) +### Interview Distribution +- **B (Power Users):** 3-4 interviews (PRIMARY focus) +- **D (AI Freelancers):** 3-4 interviews (SECONDARY) +- **A (Studios):** 2-3 interviews (TERTIARY) +- **C (Freelancers):** 2-3 interviews (BONUS) -**IF PIVOT decision (<60% interest OR weak willingness to pay):** -- [ ] Select alternative ICP (agencies? e-commerce? different dev segment?) -- [ ] Prepare new interview script tailored to alternative ICP -- [ ] Run 5-10 more interviews (est. 1-2 weeks) -- [ ] Final GO/STOP decision +**Total:** 10-14 interviews -**IF STOP decision (<40% interest, no one willing to pay):** -- [ ] Document learnings (what didn't work, what insights gained) -- [ ] Thank all interviewees professionally -- [ ] Decide: tackle different problem OR shut down project -- [ ] Focus energy back on day job (reduce stress, reassess in 3-6 months) +### Success Criteria +- 60%+ say "I would use this" (6+ out of 10) +- 40%+ willing to pay $20+ (4+ out of 10) +- 30%+ want early access (3+ out of 10) +- **KILLER USE CASE identified:** ONE specific pain mentioned by 60%+ + +### Outreach Channels (Reddit ban workaround) +- **Discord #1:** Cursor + Claude servers (most active) +- **Twitter/X #2:** Search #cursor #ClaudeCode #AICoding +- **Dev.to #3:** Comment on AI coding articles +- **Indie Hackers #4:** Direct messaging +- **LinkedIn #5:** Careful approach (employer risk) --- -### MVP Development Phase (4-6 weeks) -*(Assuming GO decision)* +## ๐Ÿ“Š Key Metrics Dashboard -**Est. duration: 4-6 weeks total** +**Updated:** Weekly (Sundays) -- **Weeks 1-2:** Core generation pipeline + MCP integration - - REST API endpoints finalized - - Prompt Enhancement Agent working - - Image generation with @name references - - Basic storage + CDN integration - - **Deliverable:** Working API (generate + upload + references) +### Validation Metrics (Active Sprint) +- Interviews completed: **0 / 10** +- Positive responses ("I would use"): **- / -** +- Willing to pay $20+: **- / -** +- Early access requests: **- / -** -- **Week 3:** MCP implementation - - MCP server setup (follow spec) - - Implement 3 tools: banatie_generate, banatie_upload, banatie_list_images - - Test with Claude Desktop - - Documentation for MCP usage - - **Deliverable:** Working MCP integration - -- **Week 4:** Transformations + UI refinement - - Image transformation service (Imageflow or Cloudflare) - - Refine demo UI (code snippets, transformation previews) - - Dashboard (history, usage stats) - - API key management - - **Deliverable:** Functional UI for testing - -- **Week 5:** Payments + polish - - Stripe integration (credit packs: $20, $50, $100) - - Free tier limits enforcement (10/month with watermark) - - Landing page copy + design - - API documentation (REST + MCP) - - **Deliverable:** Monetization-ready product - -- **Week 6:** Beta testing + iteration - - Invite 5-10 validated users from research - - High-touch onboarding (help with MCP setup) - - Gather feedback, fix critical bugs - - Iterate on UX pain points - - **Deliverable:** Product-market fit signals or pivot triggers - ---- - -### Soft Launch & Growth Phase (Months 3-6 after validation) - -**Month 3:** First paying customers -- Goal: 5-10 beta users onboarded -- 50+ generations completed -- 2+ users purchase credits (willingness to pay validated) -- Target MRR: $200-500 - -**Month 4:** Soft launch to communities -- Post in r/ClaudeAI: "Show HN: Generate images from Claude Code via MCP" -- Indie Hackers build-in-public post -- Dev.to technical content (tutorial: "Automate image gen in Next.js with Claude Code") -- Target MRR: $500-1,000 - -**Month 5:** Growth optimization -- SEO content (start ranking for "AI image generation API", "Claude Code images") -- Community building (Discord, Reddit presence) -- Case studies from early users -- Target MRR: $1-2K (Side Project Validation milestone) - ---- - -## ๐ŸŽฏ Long-term Goals (Relative Milestones) - -### Month 6 Checkpoint: Side Project Validation -**Timeframe:** ~6 months after validation -**Success criteria:** -- MRR: $1-2K -- Customers: 10-20 paying -- Churn: <5% monthly -- Signal: Product-market fit OR clear pivot needed - -**Decision:** Continue scaling OR reassess viability - ---- - -### Month 9 Checkpoint: Hybrid Mode Decision -**Timeframe:** ~9 months after validation -**Success criteria:** -- MRR: $3-5K -- Customers: 30-50 paying -- Usage: Predictable growth pattern - -**Options:** -- Negotiate 4-day work week with employer (80% salary = $4.8K) -- OR: Stay full-time job, continue nights/weekends -- Combined income: $7-10K/month (meets family needs + buffer) - ---- - -### Month 12 Checkpoint: Full-time Leap Evaluation -**Timeframe:** ~12 months after validation -**Success criteria:** -- MRR: $6K+ (current salary replacement) -- OR: 12-month runway saved + high confidence in growth -- OR: MRR = $4-5K + spouse (Ekaterina) involved in admin with income - -**Decision:** Go full-time on Banatie OR continue hybrid - -**Long-term vision (24-36 months from validation):** -- $15-30K MRR: Sustainable solo/small team business -- Hire 1-2 people (support, marketing, or tech) -- Consider Ekaterina full-time on admin/ops +**By Segment:** +- A (Studios): **0 / 3** interviews +- B (Power Users): **0 / 4** interviews โญ PRIMARY +- C (Freelancers): **0 / 3** interviews +- D (AI Freelancers): **0 / 4** interviews โญ SECONDARY --- ## ๐Ÿšฆ Decision Gates -### GATE 1: ICP Validation (ACTIVE - Est. 2 weeks) +### GATE 1: ICP Validation (ACTIVE - Est. Nov 10, 2025) -**Started:** Oct 31, 2025 +**Started:** Nov 2, 2025 (preparation phase) **Success criteria (ALL must be met):** - 60%+ interviews say "I would use this" (6 out of 10) - 40%+ willing to pay $20+ (4 out of 10) - 30%+ want early access (3 out of 10) -- **KILLER USE CASE identified:** ONE specific, frequent, expensive pain mentioned by 60%+ respondents (not scattered generic needs) +- **KILLER USE CASE:** ONE specific, frequent pain mentioned by 60%+ (not scattered needs) - Budget confirmed (they pay for other tools) **Possible outcomes:** -- โœ… **GO** โ†’ Build MVP for AI developers (strong signals) -- ๐Ÿ”„ **PIVOT** โ†’ Test different ICP (weak signals, add 1-2 weeks) -- ๐Ÿ›‘ **STOP** โ†’ Shut down or fundamental rethink (no market fit) +- โœ… **GO** โ†’ Build MVP for validated segment (4-6 weeks) +- ๐Ÿ”„ **PIVOT** โ†’ Test different segment (add 1-2 weeks) +- ๐Ÿ›‘ **STOP** โ†’ No market fit, fundamental rethink **Review:** Upon completion with @men --- -### GATE 2: MVP Launch Readiness (Week 6 of MVP development) +### GATE 2: MVP Launch Readiness **Timeframe:** ~6-8 weeks after Gate 1 GO decision **Success criteria:** - MCP integration works reliably (95%+ success rate) -- 5-10 beta users onboarded and generating images -- 50+ generations completed (usage validated) -- 2+ users purchase credits (monetization validated) -- No critical bugs blocking core workflow +- 5-10 beta users onboarded +- 50+ generations completed +- 2+ users purchase credits +- No critical bugs **Possible outcomes:** -- โœ… **LAUNCH** โ†’ Soft launch to r/ClaudeAI, Indie Hackers -- ๐Ÿ”„ **ITERATE** โ†’ Add 1-2 weeks for bug fixes, UX improvements -- ๐Ÿ›‘ **PIVOT** โ†’ Different approach needed (MCP too complex? Different features?) - -**Review:** Upon completion +- โœ… **LAUNCH** โ†’ Soft launch to communities +- ๐Ÿ”„ **ITERATE** โ†’ Add 1-2 weeks for improvements +- ๐Ÿ›‘ **PIVOT** โ†’ Different approach needed --- -### GATE 3: PMF Validation (Month 6 checkpoint) +### GATE 3: PMF Validation -**Timeframe:** ~6 months after Gate 1 GO decision +**Timeframe:** ~6 months after Gate 1 GO **Success criteria:** - $1-2K MRR achieved -- <5% monthly churn (customers staying) +- <5% monthly churn - "Can't live without" feedback from 3+ users -- Organic word-of-mouth starting (referrals, shares) -- Usage growing without marketing spend +- Organic word-of-mouth starting **Possible outcomes:** -- โœ… **SCALE** โ†’ Invest in growth (content, partnerships, paid ads eventually) -- ๐Ÿ”„ **OPTIMIZE** โ†’ Refine product, improve conversion -- ๐Ÿ›‘ **PIVOT/STOP** โ†’ No PMF achieved after 6 months, reassess fundamentally - -**Review:** Upon reaching timeframe +- โœ… **SCALE** โ†’ Invest in growth +- ๐Ÿ”„ **OPTIMIZE** โ†’ Refine product +- ๐Ÿ›‘ **PIVOT/STOP** โ†’ No PMF after 6 months --- @@ -256,168 +177,221 @@ ### HIGH PRIORITY RISKS **1. Burnout Risk (Severity: HIGH)** -- **Factors:** Full-time job + side project + newborn (Kirill, 2 weeks old) + family of 5 -- **Current exposure:** Working 60+ hrs/week total (40 job + 20 Banatie) -- **Monitor:** Weekly health check-ins (Sundays) -- **Mitigation:** - - Strict time boundaries (no work after 10 PM) - - One full day off per week (family only) - - Use Agent Coding (Claude Code) to maximize efficiency - - Cut scope ruthlessly (MVP, not full vision) -- **Red flags:** Physical health decline, family tension, day job performance suffering -- **Abort criteria:** If health/family at risk, pause Banatie (not worth it) - ---- +- Factors: Full-time job + side project + newborn (Kirill, Oct 7) + family of 5 +- Current exposure: 60+ hrs/week total +- Monitor: Weekly health check-ins (Sundays) +- Mitigation: Strict time boundaries, one full day off/week, use Agent Coding +- Red flags: Health decline, family tension, job performance suffering +- Abort: If health/family at risk, pause Banatie **2. Financial Pressure Risk (Severity: HIGH)** -- **Factors:** Zero savings buffer, school tuition coming, single income ($6K/month) -- **Current exposure:** No emergency fund, Daniel's private school pending -- **Monitor:** Monthly expense tracking, runway calculation -- **Mitigation:** - - Keep day job until Banatie โ‰ฅ $6K MRR (non-negotiable) - - Negotiate hybrid work arrangement early (6-month mark if traction) - - Bootstrap (no fundraising until PMF clear) - - Minimize Banatie expenses (use family VPS, free tools) -- **Red flags:** Credit card debt accumulating, school tuition unpaid, family stress over money -- **Abort criteria:** If Banatie costs exceed $500/month without revenue - ---- +- Factors: Zero buffer, school tuition coming, $6K/month sole income +- Current exposure: No emergency fund +- Monitor: Monthly expense tracking +- Mitigation: Keep day job until โ‰ฅ$6K MRR, minimize expenses +- Red flags: Credit card debt, unpaid tuition, family money stress +- Abort: If Banatie costs >$500/month without revenue **3. No PMF Risk (Severity: HIGHEST)** -- **Factors:** Unvalidated ICP, new category (convergence play), complex product -- **Current exposure:** Hypothesis not yet tested with external users -- **Monitor:** Interview feedback, churn rate, usage metrics, qualitative signals -- **Mitigation:** - - Brutal ICP validation BEFORE building more (current sprint) - - Launch ultra-MVP (not full platform) - - 10-15 customer interviews BEFORE launch - - Set clear pivot triggers (see Phase 1 decision point) -- **Red flags:** No one willing to pay, high churn (>10%), "cool idea, but..." feedback -- **Abort criteria:** After 6 months, if <$500 MRR and no PMF signals โ†’ shut down - ---- +- Factors: Unvalidated ICP, complex product, new category +- Current exposure: Hypothesis not yet tested externally +- Monitor: Interview feedback, usage metrics, qualitative signals +- Mitigation: Brutal validation BEFORE building more, ultra-MVP launch +- Red flags: No one willing to pay, high churn >10%, "cool but..." feedback +- Abort: After 6 months, if <$500 MRR and no PMF signals **4. Employer Discovery Risk (Severity: MEDIUM)** -- **Factors:** Building side project while employed, same industry (web dev, AI) -- **Current exposure:** Public presence needed for marketing (Twitter, LinkedIn, dev.to) -- **Monitor:** LinkedIn/social mentions, colleague conversations -- **Mitigation strategies:** (see `backlog/06-future-topics-backlog.md` - "ัะฒะตั‡ะตะฝะธะต ั„ะตะนัะฐ") - - Use separate brand identity (Banatie, not personal) - - Delay LinkedIn posting until closer to launch - - Focus on dev.to, Indie Hackers (less employer monitoring) - - Check employment contract for IP clauses -- **Red flags:** Employer asks about side projects, colleagues mention seeing Banatie -- **Abort criteria:** If employer explicitly forbids, negotiate exit OR pause publicly +- Factors: Building side project while employed, same industry +- Current exposure: Public presence needed for marketing +- Monitor: LinkedIn mentions, colleague conversations +- Mitigation: Separate brand identity, delay LinkedIn, focus dev.to +- Red flags: Employer asks about side projects +- Abort: If employer forbids, negotiate exit OR pause publicly --- -## ๐Ÿ“Š Key Metrics Dashboard +## ๐Ÿ“Š Research Insights Summary -**Updated:** Weekly (every Sunday evening) +### Direction 2 (AI Coding Agents) โญ VALIDATED -### Validation Metrics (Active Sprint) -**Sprint started:** Oct 31, 2025 -- Interviews completed: **0 / 10** -- Positive responses ("I would use"): **- / -** -- Willing to pay $20+: **- / -** -- Early access requests: **- / -** +**๐ŸŸข Strong Signals:** +- Massive user base (36K+ r/cursor members) +- Stock photos pain (generic, overused) +- Willingness to pay ($20-200/mo for AI tools) +- Manual Midjourney workflow tedious +- Aspect ratio limitations +- Image optimization time-consuming +- Paid MCP business model works -### Development Metrics (After GO decision) -- MVP features completed: **- / 8** -- Beta users onboarded: **- / 10** -- Generations completed: **- / 50** -- Credit purchases: **- / 2** +**ICP Match:** 70-80% confidence +- Founder IS the ICP (uses Claude Code) +- Technical fit = perfect (MCP + SDK) +- Market size = huge +- Fast to revenue -### Business Metrics (Post-launch) -- **MRR:** $0 -- **Paying customers:** 0 -- **Churn rate:** N/A -- **Conversion rate (Free โ†’ Paid):** N/A -- **Usage per user (avg gens/month):** N/A +### Direction 1 (Agencies) - Secondary + +**๐ŸŸข Signals:** +- "Placeholder hell" validated +- Client approval blocked without realistic images + +**โš ๏ธ Concerns:** +- ICP mismatch (agencies โ‰  validated audience) +- Unclear if AI solves approval problem +- Longer sales cycle (B2B) + +### Direction 6 (E-commerce) - Parking Lot + +**๐ŸŸข Signals:** +- Huge market ($50B product photography) +- Clear use case (1 photo โ†’ 100 variations) + +**๐Ÿ”ด Problems:** +- ICP mismatch (no-code preference) +- Free tier competition (16K-31K images/month FREE) +- Pivot required (3-6 months) --- -## ๐Ÿ”ฎ Future Considerations (Not Currently Scheduled) +## ๐ŸŽฏ Validated ICP Segments (A/B/C/D) -### Features (Post-PMF, after 50+ users) -- Flow-based chained generation (complex workflows) -- On-demand URL generation (programmatic HTML generation) -- Namespaces / project organization -- Team collaboration features (multi-user, agencies) -- Advanced style presets / fine-tuning +**A) Studios/Agencies - Decision Maker** +- CEO/Founder/Manager in 3-10 person team +- Higher ACV ($149/mo potential) +- Longer sales cycle -### Market Expansion (After PMF with AI developers) -- Agency tier ($149/mo for teams) -- E-commerce vertical (product image generation, Shopify integration) -- Enterprise tier (custom pricing, SLA, support) +**B) Power Users - Tech Champion** โญ PRIMARY +- Tech leads using Cursor/Claude Code +- Already pay $20-200/mo for AI tools +- Fast decision, can influence team adoption -### Operations (After $10K MRR) -- Hire VA for customer support -- Involve Ekaterina (wife) in admin/ops -- Consider part-time dev help for non-core features -- Explore partnership opportunities (integrations, resellers) +**C) Freelancers - Solo Decision** +- Most price-sensitive +- Fast decision (no approval needed) +- Credits > subscription preference + +**D) AI-Savvy Freelancers - Power Solo** โญ SECONDARY +- Active AI tool users (Cursor, ChatGPT) +- High project volume +- Time = money mindset + +**Technical Product:** SAME for all segments +- Differences only in GTM (messaging, pricing emphasis, channels) + +--- + +## ๐Ÿ”ฎ Future Milestones (After Validation) + +### Post-Validation Phase (1-2 weeks after GO) + +**IF GO decision (60%+ willing to use, 40%+ pay):** +- Finalize MVP scope based on validated needs +- Begin MCP server development +- Prepare beta access list + +**IF PIVOT decision (<60% interest OR weak willingness to pay):** +- Select alternative segment +- New interview script +- Second validation round (1-2 weeks) + +**IF STOP decision (<40% interest, no one willing to pay):** +- Document learnings +- Thank interviewees +- Reassess in 3-6 months + +### MVP Development Phase (4-6 weeks after GO) + +**Weeks 1-2:** Core generation + MCP integration +**Week 3:** MCP implementation +**Week 4:** Transformations + UI refinement +**Week 5:** Payments + polish +**Week 6:** Beta testing + iteration + +### Launch & Growth (Months 3-6 after validation) + +**Month 3:** First paying customers +- Goal: 5-10 beta users, 50+ generations, 2+ purchases +- Target: $200-500 MRR + +**Month 4:** Soft launch to communities +- r/ClaudeAI, Indie Hackers, dev.to +- Target: $500-1,000 MRR + +**Month 5:** Growth optimization +- SEO content, community building, case studies +- Target: $1-2K MRR (Side Project Validation) + +--- + +## ๐ŸŽฏ Long-term Goals (Relative Milestones) + +### Month 6: Side Project Validation +- MRR: $1-2K +- Customers: 10-20 paying +- Churn: <5% monthly +- Decision: Continue scaling OR reassess + +### Month 9: Hybrid Mode Decision +- MRR: $3-5K +- Customers: 30-50 paying +- Options: 4-day work week OR stay full-time + +### Month 12: Full-time Leap Evaluation +- MRR: $6K+ (salary replacement) +- OR: 12-month runway saved +- Decision: Go full-time OR continue hybrid + +### 24-36 months: Sustainable Business +- MRR: $15-30K +- Hire 1-2 people +- Consider Ekaterina full-time on admin --- ## ๐Ÿ“‹ Action Items Summary -**Active Sprint (ICP Validation - Started Oct 31):** -1. Create throwaway Reddit account -2. Post validation questions in r/ClaudeAI and r/ChatGPTCoding -3. Conduct 10 text-based interviews -4. Document results in validation scorecard -5. Make GO/PIVOT/STOP decision +**Active (This Week - Nov 2-3):** +1. Create 4 interview scripts (A/B/C/D segments) +2. Build outreach target lists (Discord, Twitter, LinkedIn, Upwork) +3. Prepare validation scorecard +4. Plan 7-day interview sprint schedule -**After Validation - IF GO:** -1. Finalize MVP scope based on interview insights -2. Set up development environment (if not already done) -3. Begin MCP server implementation -4. Prepare beta access list - -**After Validation - IF PIVOT:** -1. Select alternative ICP -2. Prepare new interview script -3. Begin second validation round (est. 1-2 weeks) +**Next Week (Nov 4-10):** +1. Conduct 10-14 interviews across segments +2. Document results in validation scorecard +3. Make GO/PIVOT/STOP decision +4. Plan next phase based on outcome --- ## ๐ŸŽฏ Success Definitions by Stage ### Pre-launch Success (Current) -- โœ… ICP validated externally (60%+ interest, 40%+ willing to pay) -- โœ… MVP scope locked (based on validated needs) -- โœ… First 5 beta users identified from research +- โœ… ICP validated externally (60%+ interest, 40%+ pay) +- โœ… MVP scope locked (validated needs) +- โœ… First 5 beta users identified ### Launch Success (Month 3-4) -- โœ… 5-10 beta users actively using product +- โœ… 5-10 beta users active - โœ… 50+ generations completed -- โœ… 2+ credit purchases (willingness to pay confirmed) -- โœ… No critical bugs blocking workflow +- โœ… 2+ credit purchases +- โœ… No critical bugs -### Early Traction Success (Month 6) +### Early Traction (Month 6) - โœ… $1-2K MRR -- โœ… <5% monthly churn -- โœ… Product-market fit signals ("can't live without") -- โœ… Organic growth starting (word-of-mouth, referrals) +- โœ… <5% churn +- โœ… PMF signals ("can't live without") +- โœ… Organic growth starting -### Sustainability Success (Month 12) -- โœ… $6K+ MRR (salary replacement level) -- โœ… Predictable growth trajectory -- โœ… Hybrid or full-time transition viable -- โœ… Clear path to $10-15K MRR +### Sustainability (Month 12) +- โœ… $6K+ MRR (salary replacement) +- โœ… Predictable growth +- โœ… Full-time transition viable +- โœ… Path to $10-15K MRR clear --- -**Roadmap Owner:** @men + Oleg (joint ownership) -**Last Updated:** October 31, 2025 -**Next Review:** Upon completion of ICP validation -**Version Control:** Track major changes via Git commits - ---- - -**Quick Reference Commands:** -- Update metrics: Every Sunday evening -- Review roadmap: After each decision gate -- Update action items: As completed or priorities change -- Archive completed sprints: When moving to next phase -- Mark tasks complete: Record actual completion dates for velocity tracking +**Roadmap Owner:** @men + Oleg +**Last Updated:** November 2, 2025 +**Next Review:** After ICP validation complete (Nov 10, 2025) +**Version:** 3.0 (Research phase 1 completed, interview prep active)