In my years of consulting and academic leadership, I have observed a recurring tragedy: brilliant, creative ideas that die in the market because they lack a structural skeleton. Many entrepreneurs and businesspeople believe that a great product or service prototype is the end of the journey. This is a profound strategic error. To successfully transition from an entrepreneurial dream to the real market, an idea or project must be guided by a projectual methodology that integrates business logic with creative excellence. I have codified this as the R+D+M+f Matrix. By prioritizing Research, Design/Development, Market, and Follow-up, we transform the intangibility of projects into a tangible, scalable asset.
1. Research (R)
The Foundation of Fact
Professional creativity begins with the discovery of a real need. We must move beyond simple observation into a systematic study of the actors and stakeholders involved. This phase is the strategic medicine for reactivity. By defining Strategic, Tactical, and Operational Objectives, we ensure the project is anchored in truth rather than just imagination.
2. Design/Development (D)
Projecting with Precision
In this quadrant, the Idea is built into a tangible result. This phase is not merely a technical exercise but a step-by-step progression from Conceptual Design to Final Design. We must define the Aspect, Function, and Expression of the solution to ensure it is not just an object, but a message. Crucially, this stage includes Verification to guarantee the viability of the proposal.
3. Market (M)
The Strategy of Commercialization
A project is incomplete without a Commercialization Plan. We must stop acting as laborers and start acting as strategists by analyzing Positioning and Competitive Advantage to identify our potential audience, because yes, we can imagine our ideal consumers or users, and that’s good for planning, but reality is different.
4. Follow-up (f)
The Commitment to Standards
The final quadrant ensures sustainability. We must establish Standards of Quality and a Methodology for Tracking to maintain the trust and loyalty of the audience or target. This phase moves the brand from a one-time experience to a permanent ecosystem.
Conclusion:
The R+D+M+f matrix is the bridge across the Invisible Market Approval Wall. It replaces the chaos of passion with the surgical precision of competence.
Success in the Creative Industry and business is not an accident of talent; it is a result of the R+D+M+f process. A New Standard for the Creative Industry.
Recommended Thematic Readings:
- Valverde, J. L. Del Emprendimiento a la Microempresa. 17
- Valverde, J. L. Guía para Proyectos de Titulación. 18
- Costa, J. El Diseño es Acción. 19
- Newport, C. So Good They Can’t Ignore You. 20
