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Your idea for an indoor golf map directory falls into the "Minimal Signal" category. This means there isn't much readily apparent market activity, which could be because the problem you're solving is very niche or perhaps not a high priority for people. With only one similar product found, our confidence in this categorization is low, highlighting the need for validation. Engagement is also low, with no comments on average across similar products. This suggests that while the idea might be novel, it hasn't captured significant attention yet. You're at a stage where proving demand is crucial before investing too heavily in development.

Recommendations

1. Begin by identifying online communities, forums, or social media groups where indoor golf enthusiasts or potential customers gather. Share your idea and ask for feedback. Gauge their interest by asking direct questions about their current methods for finding indoor golf locations and the challenges they face.
2. Before building a full-fledged directory, offer to manually curate a list of indoor golf locations for a small group of potential users (2-3 people). This will provide valuable insights into their needs and preferences, as well as validate whether they find such a service useful. Use their feedback to refine your concept.
3. Create a concise explainer video demonstrating how your directory would work and the benefits it provides. Host it on a platform like YouTube or Vimeo and track the completion rate. If a significant portion of viewers watch the entire video, it indicates a genuine interest in your solution.
4. Consider creating a waiting list and asking for a small, non-refundable deposit to join. This serves as a strong indicator of commitment and willingness to pay for your service. It can also provide you with early-stage funding to further develop your idea.
5. Set a clear deadline for your validation efforts. If you cannot find at least 5 genuinely interested people willing to provide feedback or join your waiting list within 3 weeks, critically reassess the viability of your idea. It might indicate a lack of demand or that your target audience is not easily reachable.
6. Given the limited signal, consider pivoting to a related but potentially more viable offering. For example, instead of a directory, could you offer a platform for indoor golf facilities to manage bookings or promote special events? Or a platform for indoor golf leagues to organize tee times, track scores, and offer promotions to the community?
7. Explore partnerships with existing golf-related businesses, such as golf equipment retailers or online golf booking platforms. Collaborating with established players in the industry could help you reach a wider audience and gain valuable market insights.

Questions

1. What are the alternative solutions people currently use to find indoor golf locations, and how is your directory significantly better?
2. What specific data points (e.g., course details, pricing, user reviews) are most important to your target audience when choosing an indoor golf location, and how will you ensure the accuracy and completeness of this information?
3. What is your plan for monetizing the directory (e.g., advertising, premium listings, subscription fees), and how will you ensure that your chosen monetization strategy aligns with the needs and expectations of both users and indoor golf facilities?