"The more we fail, the more we learn."
Muhammet is a product designer and indie hacker. He is currently working on a host of projects, one of them Linhug - an English vocabulary learning game.
Like most of the indie hacking world, Muhammet has also embraced AI and is building interesting products using it:
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How do you come up with new project ideas?
Currently, I am actively involved in many projects, and I typically come up with product ideas using the following method:
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First, I identify an existing problem in the market. I analyze the shortcomings of current products and take note of user complaints.
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Next, I brainstorm ways to solve the problem in the simplest and most effective way possible.
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Once I have a potential solution, I test it to see if users are interested. Sometimes, even if the solution is great, it may not be in high demand.
In addition to this method, I sometimes develop products that are similar to existing ones in order to gain a small share of a larger market. This decision is based on my skills and knowledge.
For example, I am currently working with a friend to develop a product on ChatGPT. While there is high competition in this market, the potential size of the market means that even a 3% share could result in significant success.
What is your tech stack and why?
Since my main focus is design, I can place Figma at the center. Although Figma is the program I use the most, I also use design-oriented programs such as Adobe XD, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, Canva, etc.
In short, I prefer whichever program enables me to complete my job easily. I don't have a must-have program 😊
How many failed projects do you have, and how have they set you up for success? Or what is a failure you are grateful for?
I have had many failed projects in the past, and unfortunately, they continue to happen. It seems that there is no formula for this type of work.
However, I believe that the more we fail, the more we learn. Rather than spending a year on developing a single product, I think it is better to produce 12 products in a year and potentially only have one successful one. By doing so, we can learn from our mistakes and improve our chances of success in the future.
What advice would you give to a smart, driven builder yet to experience any “success”? What advice should they ignore?
I strongly recommend that you try it out for yourself. Until we try it, we never know which approach will work best.
Personally, I have always found it beneficial to work consistently for shorter periods of time. Working 10 hours over the course of 10 days can often be more productive than working 10 hours per day.
It is also important to make time for your family and loved ones.
How do you monetize what you build? Any advice as to what has worked for you and what hasn’t?
I think there is no clear answer to this question. User behavior can be quite unpredictable and may change significantly over time. Sometimes, even if you have the best product on the market, you may not be able to sell it. Conversely, there may be instances where you have an average product, but it sells well.
In my personal opinion, it is essential to conduct a thorough analysis before releasing a product to determine if there is a genuine need for it in the market and if customers are willing to buy it at the proposed price point.
What is one of the best or most worthwhile investments you’ve ever made?
I typically invest in my own business. However, when the opportunity to work on the Linhug project as a freelancer was presented to me, I was so interested in it that I decided to become a partner in the project instead of accepting monetary compensation. 🥳
How do you stay up-to-date with technological developments, and how do you incorporate this knowledge into your projects? Or how do you keep learning and improving your craft?
I always try to experiment with new tools in my field as soon as they are released. I frequently follow new developments in the industry, and doing so brings me a great deal of joy. Trying a new tool can sometimes help me complete my work more efficiently.
Furthermore, I believe that every indie hacker should stay up to date with the latest technology developments.
What is your process for starting a new project? How do you decide on an idea to pursue?
I have never had any trouble finding ideas. I always keep a notebook handy to jot down any ideas that come to mind, along with any pertinent details.
Additionally, if I'm looking for ideas within a particular field, I can usually find success with a brief research session. This is a bit of technical skill, a bit of a feature that one should have in himself.
In the last five years, what new belief, behavior, or habit has most improved your life?
It is best to work little and regularly. Previously, I used to work a full-time job and come home, then work at home again before going to sleep, and go back to work the next day. Although this method works in the short term, it is very frustrating in the long run. Working little and constantly is more effective than working hard. 😊