Topic outline

  • General

  • Unit 1

    Aims at placing you in the current environment and explaining the latest trends related to the creation of startups.

    In this unit we will introduce the “Lean Startup” methodology and explain various techniques useful in the idea-generation and customer identification processes. You will also understand how to identify potential problems, look for solutions and analyse competitors.

  • Unit 2

    Aims at validating that the business idea is useful to someone, as one of the major causes of failure of startups is that they create products that nobody wants.

    In this unit we will explain the methodology "Mom test" to learn the optimal way to address users and potential customers and validate the initial idea. We will also learn how to create empathy maps and surveys and how to validate the ideas with real potential customers.

  • Unit 3

    Aims at visualizing and tracking the progress of the project, using supporting tools.

    In this unit we will explain the “Business Model Canvas” and introduce the “Validation Board”, which will be the canvas for monitoring the evolution of the idea for the rest of the course.

  • Unit 4

    Aims at creating something that can be shown, a mock-up of the desired product.

    In this unit we will explain techniques and best practices for creating mock-ups, including the use of multiplatform tools.

  • Unit 5

    Aims at explaining how to develop a “Minimum Viable Product (MVP)” to finish validating that the business idea works with a real product.

    In this unit we will explain techniques and best practices for creating Minimum Viable Products and how to use multiplatform tools to create a Minimum Viable Product.

  • Unit 6

    Aims at showing how to understand whether a business idea would have a good performance in real life.

    In this unit we will explain how an entrepreneur can make better decisions taking into account a number of key aspects of the business.

  • Unit 7

    Aims at explaining how to pitch your idea in order to get funds for your business.

    In this unit we will explain what a business should do in order to survive and become a success story. We will also present various possible fundraising alternatives and advise you on how to pitch your idea to investors.

  • What are the advantages or disadvantages of having your own business?