I am planning to start a new business, a bookshop specifically targeting school children. My business model focuses on home delivery within my hometown, where many fathers have migrated for work, leaving mothers struggling to shop for their children's school supplies each year. I believe there is strong demand for this service. However, before launching the business traditionally, I want to test and validate the idea to ensure its viability. Please provide me with proper guidelines on how to conduct this validation effectively.

Validating this Business Idea
1. What Hypothesis do you want to test first?     

I want to test whether there is enough demand for a home delivery bookshop service in my hometown. Specifically, I want to see if mothers find it convenient and are willing to place orders for school supplies instead of visiting physical stores.

2. How are you going to build an MVP to Test this Hypothesis?

I will create a small online presence (WhatsApp and Facebook page) where parents can place orders. I will start with essential school supplies like textbooks, notebooks, and stationery. I will also promote the service through word-of-mouth and local community groups.

3. What resources are required to build the MVP?

• Time: I will need time to reach out to parents, set up the ordering system, and manage deliveries.
• Money: A small budget for marketing (flyers, online ads) and some smaller amount to purchase orders received.
• Materials: A reliable nearest supplier for books and stationery, storage space at home, and I will delivery some orders by my Motor bike.

4. What results or feedback are you looking for from this test?

I want to see if parents place orders and whether they find the service useful. Positive feedback will confirm demand, while concerns will help me refine the service. The suitable time for the delivery, preferred payment system and the specification of the items – brand and price.

5.  How quickly can you make changes once you have that feedback?

I can make adjustments immediately. If parents prefer different ordering methods or need additional products, I can modify my service within a few days.

6. What does the schedule look like for building and testing the MVP?

• Week 1: Set up a Facebook/WhatsApp page, reach out to parents, and collect initial feedback.
• Week 2: Take pre-orders and arrange for stock.
• Week 3-4: Start delivering and gathering feedback for improvements.

7. How much traction would you need in order to start the business?

If I receive at least 50-100 pre-orders and see steady demand over a few months, I will consider expanding the business.

8. If you pursue this full-time, do you have money saved up in case it             does not work?

Since I am testing the business first, I will minimize risks. However, I will keep some savings aside to cover unexpected costs. If the business grows, I will reinvest profits to expand.