Value Proposition: How to Create a Product People Will Actually Buy

In this Value Proposition: How to Create a Product People Will Actually Buy lecture by Michael Skok shares various things about Value Proposition of a product. One of the most common reasons startups fail is surprisingly simple: their value proposition isn’t strong enough to drive customer action. Many startups struggle because their product doesn’t offer enough unique value to capture the attention of customers. Whether it’s because customers have other competing priorities or existing solutions, though not perfect, are “good enough,” a weak value proposition can prevent a startup from thriving.

A solid value proposition is essential for success. It defines the benefit you offer, who you offer it to, and why your solution is uniquely positioned to address customer pain points. Crafting a compelling value proposition can be the difference between a startup that flourishes and one that fails.

In this workshop, originally presented at the Harvard Innovation Labs, Michael Skok, founding partner of Underscore VC, will guide you through proven frameworks to help you define and validate your value proposition. Learn how to clearly communicate the benefits your product offers and why it’s the ideal solution for your target market.

About the Speaker:

Michael Skok is a venture capital expert and a founding partner at Underscore VC, a Boston-based firm investing in bold B2B software startups. With over 21 years as an entrepreneur and 18 years as a venture investor, Michael has launched numerous startups, created thousands of jobs, and contributed billions in value across various industries, including Open Source, Cloud, IoT, and emerging technologies such as Blockchain, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning.

He is actively involved with private and public boards, such as Acquia, Demandware (now part of Salesforce), Salsify, and Zaius. As a mentor, Michael has worked with startups at various stages and is passionate about guiding entrepreneurs towards success. He co-founded Underscore VC in 2015 to support founders in building enduring companies through community-driven efforts.

Michael has also taught and mentored entrepreneurs for over 10 years at Harvard University, where he is an Entrepreneur in Residence. His dedication to nurturing the next generation of startup founders has led him to create the Startup Secrets series, sharing his insights into building successful businesses.

Dive Deeper into Startup Secrets:

Want to learn more? Explore the interactive Startup Secrets Sandbox, where you can access valuable frameworks, insights, and tools to help you build, scale, and refine your startup’s value proposition, making it irresistible to your target market. Click Here for more about Value Proposition: How to Create a Product People Will Actually Buy

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