Thread by @dominiconorton

I recently was asked about how to create a prototype for a directory product.

Here was my answer. A thread ⬇️

#buildinpublic #nocode #BlackTechTwitter

Directories are at the core of many companies. Amazon, Uber, Facebook, AirBnB and more. Some are easier to monetise than others. Directories are older than the internet (Yellow Pages) but have been a core function of the internet from the jump.

I generally suggest things when testing an idea
1. Don’t worry about little things (logo, domain, name)
2. Condense the idea to where you can build it in a weekend
3. Set a really small budget for the build (£100 (I spend a lot less)

A couple months ago I created a “search engine” with wix for free. I used a site search plugin and tagged each blog post in connection with a searchable term. Click the link and try searching “Gucci”

dominiconorton.wixsite.com/blackalternati…

I advise founders focus less on the tech and more on:
1) Business Model
2) Customer Acquisition Strategy
3) Your motivation
If you have a technical cofounder working for free, nothing will put a strain on the relationship more than them building a product and nobody using it.

If you’re paying somebody to build it’s likely you’re wasting money if you have no idea for how people will discover and join and how you’ll make money.

I also shared a tutorial of how to make a directory app using #glide

Glide is another #nocode tool that’s easy to use and integrate with different services. All you need is a Google Spreadsheet.

docs.google.com/presentation/d…

All feedback welcome

Take a couple minutes to ask yourself why not a Facebook group, Twitter Slack, Discord Server, Slack Community etc

Why do you need a dedicated home?

Chances are there will be some bs thrown in your answer. Why your dedicated app be exceptionally special to your community?

I’m always open to chat or jump on a dm.

It is important to note. There’s no right way. Of course some ways are better than others. The key is to find what works best for you and your community, be open to ideas and believe in yourself.