We did the 2nd Philosophy without all that focus group nonsense.<p>This<p><i>>Build a product that delights some users. Goto market with the same consumers/partners that you talked with initially. Get linear adoption within that target set first, then figure out how to grow exponentially from there.</i><p>is roughly accurate.
If you have the time and resources philosophy #2 is great.<p>Philosophy #1 can be successful with comparatively little effort.<p>In the long run you probably end up with a much better product so while you may no have "hockey stick" growth right away, your chances for longevity are greater.<p>Sounds like the people who support #1 are either impatient or don't have time to wait for growth.