Deep Domain Problems (DDPs) require specialized knowledge, extensive expertise, and innovative technical solutions. Drawing from real-world experiences in lending, supply chain optimization, and forex risk management, here's a comprehensive guide on taking your DDP solution to market effectively.
1. Validate Market Readiness
Assess Solution Maturity
- Follow Betalectic's two-phase approach: first make it work, then make it work well, as described in The Evolving Role of Programmers
- Example: In our supply chain case study, the initial solution reduced delays by 7% and fuel costs by 10% in six months, proving market viability
- Validate that edge cases are handled—like the loan approval system managing cases with strong business plans despite weak credit scores, as detailed in our lending case study
Evaluate Market Timing
- Monitor regulatory changes that might affect adoption, as discussed in our guide to identifying DDPs
- Consider market evolution—as seen in India's transformation from manual processes to digital solutions over the past 15 years
- Assess if the industry is ready for change, like how the lending industry evolved to accept automated decision-making systems
2. Build Domain-Expert Partnerships
Identify Key Stakeholders
- Partner with industry veterans who understand domain complexities, following our systematic approach
- Example: In our lending analysis, engage underwriters, loan officers, and analysts who each bring unique perspectives:
- Underwriters focus 70% on data
- Loan officers weight 50% on qualitative factors
- Analysts rely 90% on models
Create a Knowledge Transfer Framework
- Document domain expertise using ubiquitous language
- Example: In supply chain optimization, clearly define terms like "Route" (different meanings for planners vs. drivers)
- Build decision trees that capture expert knowledge, like the comprehensive loan approval process tree from our lending case study
3. Structure Your Go-to-Market Strategy
Define Your Market Position
- Focus on deep domain challenges rather than surface-level problems
- Example: Betalectic's experience shows success comes from avoiding simple e-commerce apps in favor of complex domain problems
- Position solutions as transformative rather than just digitizing existing processes
Target Market Segmentation
- Identify industries most impacted by the deep domain problem
- Example: In forex risk management, target global businesses dealing with multiple currencies and complex regulatory frameworks, as demonstrated by WiredUp's experience
- Consider market size—India's large population presents unique scaling opportunities
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Best Practices When Working with AI
As discussed in Coding with AI and Sunk Cost Fallacy:
- Avoid the sunk cost fallacy when using AI tools
- Set clear directions before engaging AI
- Use AI as a consultant rather than a solution provider
- Balance AI capabilities with domain expertise
Further Reading
For deeper insights into DDP solutions:
- How to Break Down a Deep Domain Problem
- The Evolving Role of Programmers in Solving Deep Domain Problems
- Coding with AI and Sunk Cost Fallacy
- Deep Domain Problems in Lending: A Decision-Making Case Study
- Ubiquitous Language: The Foundation for Solving Deep Domain Problems
- Case Study: Decomposing a DDP in Supply Chain Optimization
Conclusion
Taking a DDP solution to market requires balancing technical excellence with domain expertise. Success comes from strong partnerships with domain experts, comprehensive support structures, and a long-term focus on solving deep industry challenges. As demonstrated by successful implementations at Betalectic, WiredUp, and Finezzy, the key is to maintain deep domain understanding while leveraging technology to create scalable, effective solutions.
Remember that market entry is just the beginning—continuous evolution and adaptation to changing domain needs are essential for long-term success. The most valuable opportunities come from solving complex, high-impact challenges that demand both domain expertise and technical innovation.