Portfolio Problems Become Products

Jack Abraham describes an approach to creating enterprise products by first identifying and solving problems within their own portfolio companies, then expanding those solutions to the broader market.

Key Points:

• Problem-First Approach:

  • Observe real problems within portfolio companies
  • No brainstorming sessions - focus on actual issues encountered
  • Look for patterns across multiple companies

• Product Development Process:

  • Build solution for internal problem
  • Deploy across portfolio companies as test customers
  • "Dog food" the product internally to ensure it works
  • Only release to broader market after proven success

• Problem Identification Method:

  • Focus on everyday business operations
  • Look for inefficiencies in:
    • Sales team operations
    • Company interactions
    • Basic business processes
  • Maintain list of observed problems (currently 600+ ideas)

• Validation Strategy:

  • Built-in customer base through portfolio companies
  • Real-world testing before market release
  • Proven product-market fit before scaling

• Philosophy:

  • World is "fundamentally broken" - many opportunities for improvement
  • Focus on upgrading existing processes rather than creating new ones
  • Solutions must demonstrate clear value before wider release