Prerequisites to an OST

To effectively use an opportunity solution tree, there are a few important prerequisites that teams should address before diving into the process:

• Target customer theory: You need a clear understanding of who your target customer is and the value proposition your product will offer them. Without this, you won’t be able to identify meaningful opportunities that will resonate with your audience.
• Clearly defined outcome: It's crucial to have a well-defined, measurable outcome that reflects your business goal. This will be the root of your opportunity solution tree. Shifting from outputs (e.g., features or deliverables) to outcomes (e.g., user engagement, revenue growth) ensures you are focused on impact rather than just delivery.
• Customer interviews: Conduct at least 3-4 story-based interviews with your customers. These will provide the real-life insights needed to populate your opportunity space with concrete needs, desires, and pain points.