Ask HN: Where to find problems for side projects?

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=4374036

by newgrad • 14 years ago

14 7 14 years ago

news.ycombinator.com

This might be a question that is often asked. Though, I couldn't really find a good resource for a satisfying answer.

I'm trying to find a problem to solve for a side-project. But I am having a hard time in searching for the one that fits me. Does anyone know a website that lists problems or where users can post their problems?

Preferably the ones which could be solved with software.

As people said: The problem is in finding the problem. Problemception.

EDIT: I guess what I am looking for is the feeling/sensations of having problems solved. I need to develop a routine (or muscle) of solving problems. Income is not the concern.

yolesaber• 14 years ago

Why not build a site where people can post problems solvable via software?

jcktt• 14 years ago

with a slightly different approach, we've built a website so people can publish project ideas. since it's only a prototype, it's a bit messy right now but we'll release a new version at the end of the summer, with a specific category for weekend projects. http://www.gullibear.com/

mgallivan• 14 years ago

That's (a bit far from intuitive but) gorgeous.

pforpal• 14 years ago

Talk to people around you (barber, barista, waiter, friends and family, etc) about the technology that they use. (smartphone, facebook, etc) The conversation almost always turns to complaining about how they wish things would work. Those are your problems to solve.

ohashi• 14 years ago

I look to my daily life and those around me. I am fortunate enough to work in a co-working space (Affinity Lab in DC) that isn't only filled with technology companies. It's a diverse group of people covering all sorts of different fields from technology, to media, to accounting, marketing, pr, products, charities, etc. We talk, a lot. There are tons of problems everyone faces, some are common, some aren't. But you get inspiration. Maybe some are common among different areas, some might be common among the same niche. But having access to discuss your issues and other people's issues really helps me see the problems people encounter. Sometimes it's about sharing different solutions because they are solved (or there is an easier way, not perfect, but easier), sometimes you need to come up with something.

tl;dr: talk to people, it helps if you're part of a diverse community of people.

newgrad• 14 years ago

Thanks guys. I guess I need to be more aware/pro-active with my surroundings to find the problems.

mapster• 14 years ago

I recommend listening to the Mixergy interview with Sam Ovens.

Ask HN: Where to find problems for side projects?

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