I am working to validate an idea. I've seen many threads that suggest it should take a few hours. I am pretty confident that I won't have workable prototype for at least a week, and I am wondering if I am overcomplicating.
Stop reading message boards telling you what to do and focus on building your MVP.<p>Go over every requirement and decision and defer or remove any that an MVP won’t require. For example, an MVP car (which took more than a couple of weeks to build) needs an engine and wheels. It does not need doors, a windscreen, or bike rack.<p>If your MVP has a good foundation and communicates the business proposition well people interested in it can fill in the blanks and imagine the next iteration.
Nah, you're not over-complicating it. Stick to it though, and use the priority of shipping to help you ruthlessly defer things that can wait until later. Look for a minimum valuable experience that you can clearly deliver (or communicate) to the potential customer. Good luck!
Asking people for money before starting to build is the best way to validate an idea.<p>When people will give you money in hopes you will solve their problem, you will have a problem worth solving. Not an imaginary problem. Not an excuse to avoid the rejection that comes with asking people for money.<p>Good luck.