MAMMUT idea scanner: From the initial idea to a convincing business model

Abstract

ABSTRACT The idea scanner MAMMUT is a self-developed web app that encourages people interested in starting a business to think entrepreneurially and professionalize their first start-up idea by asking targeted questions. Potential entrepreneurs are supported from the initial description of the business idea and the development of the business model to validation. The concept of the idea scanner is based on outcomes of the Startup Genome Project. It includes five phases that potential founders must face: General Description, Discovery, Develop Business Model, Validation, and Efficiency. By going through the individual phases in a question-based manner, participants learn about the components of a business model, the relevance of customer centricity and the value proposition, and rapid testing through prototyping in a design thinking format, based on the Lean Startup methodology. They are encouraged to reflect on themselves as potential founders and put their idea to the test. Thus, not only are their entrepreneurship skills tested, but they are also actively encouraged.