Numbers cannot always quantify and predict outcome. Again, Twitter -- while the plans I have heard of to generate revenue sound exactly like what I would be focusing on, there was no real business model or revenue model early on. Facebook was in a similar situation.
To really drive home the point, look at the history of toilet paper. YES, toilet paper. Did you know originally no one wanted to buy it because of the taboos around it in society at the time? The "numbers" would have told you that no one wants to wipe with a roll of tissue paper and to close up shop. Well, we know how that turned out.
You should ABSOLUTELY be innovating "in a space you have no business being in." Who's to tell you to not be there? Did Apple have no business to get into cellular phones? Did Odeo have no business dabbling in social networks, thus the creation of Twitter?
I say you should look to innovate in spaces that you have no business being in. Your unapologetic curiosity and potentially oblivious depth of understanding in that "space" is a fundamental element to many innovations.
Silly.
Also, I think the author would agree with you to an extent. Apple really did push into a market where they didn't have any prior business, but their experiences and expertise really paved their way to success.
Thank you my friend for engaging in debate. I love people like you in communities like HN. Makes participation that much more enjoyable.
OK, I'm done ranting on this piece. Curious what you think of my two statements. I guess your votes will tell.
Cheers.
"You're both going to get kicked to the curb by someone outside your industry who is rightly focused on the consumer (and not either one of you)." Emphasis mine.
