Question Everything Framework

A framework for identifying hidden business opportunities by questioning everyday objects and processes we take for granted.

Core Concept

• Look at common objects/situations and ask "How did this get here?"
• Question the economics and motivations behind everyday things
• Identify inefficiencies or waste that could be turned into opportunities

Key Questions to Ask

• How did this object/service get here?
• Who wanted this here?
• What are the economics behind this?
• Is there a bureaucratic decision driving this?
• Is this a broken or inefficient system?

Real World Examples

1. Labor Law Posters

• Required in every office
• Someone identified mandatory requirement
• Built $50M business laminating and distributing updated posters
• Turned regulatory requirement into opportunity

2. Unclaimed Baggage

• 0.3% of luggage never gets claimed
• Company secured exclusive partnerships with airlines
• Built business model around unclaimed items:
  • Selling valuable items
  • Donating to charity
  • Recycling materials
• Located in Scottsboro, Alabama
• Only national retailer of lost luggage

3. Hotel Toiletries

• Identified waste in partially used hotel toiletries
• Created business collecting and recycling partially used products
• Combined profit with environmental benefit
• Partners with hotels to reduce waste

Success Patterns

• Look for waste or inefficiency
• Find mandatory requirements or regulations
• Identify opportunities to simplify complex processes
• Turn problems into profitable solutions
• Combine business opportunity with social benefit