Founder Glossary · Pitching & Story
Does this actually fix it?
What it is
Problem–solution fit is evidence that a specific group of customers has a real, frequent, painful problem, and that your solution meaningfully resolves it. It comes before product–market fit, which is evidence that the solution can be sold and can grow in a market.
Signals you have it
- Customers describe the problem unprompted, in their own words.
- They already spend time or money on workarounds.
- They answer your solution with specific questions about when, how much, and how, not polite praise.
- They commit something real: time, a deposit, an introduction.
How to test for it
- Run problem interviews to confirm the pain is real and frequent.
- Run solution interviews with a prototype and watch the reaction.
- Offer a minimum viable product that asks for a real commitment.
Warning signs
- “That’s a cool idea,” followed by nothing.
- The problem only comes up when you raise it.
- Every customer wants something different from you.
Related terms: Problem Interview · Solution Interview · MVP · Traction
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