The Value of a Great Idea: How to Know If Yours is Worth Pursuing

Volume XXII

I am an ideas machine—constantly thinking of things that can be done, concepts that could come to life. People hire me for this skill set, but I also pitch ideas to brands and organisations I may not currently be working with, in the hope of bringing them to fruition. However, before I even reach that stage, I ask myself a clear set of questions to determine whether the idea is truly worth pursuing:

1. Does this idea address a problem or fulfil a need?

2. What is its potential for impact?

3. What are the tangible benefits, and could I gain buy-in to bring it to life?

4. Finally, because I am a big dreamer, is this idea actually feasible or scalable?

So, how do you identify a great idea? To answer that question, I always start with research. Research reveals a few key things: Has this idea been done before, and if so, to what extent? Is there a genuine need for it? What are the current market trends? What are the specific needs of the audience you are trying to reach? What has worked, and what hasn’t? Most of this information can be found with a few well-structured Google searches, and I always make a point of documenting my findings.

Once that groundwork is laid, I shift into brainstorming mode. I turn to search engines like Pinterest to visually express my thoughts and use Canva to create mood boards. I also take notes—I'm old school, so it's pen and paper in my notebook. Sometimes my notes are scattered, and the words seem all over the place, but amid the chaos, I can usually identify recurring themes that start to take shape. But truly, even with all this quantitative data, the most crucial factor in identifying a great idea is the passion you feel for it. When you think about it, you just know—it needs to come to life.

In December 2016, I had one of those great ideas—the kind that stays with you until you make it happen. I envisioned creating a media and digital camp for Francophone youth in Toronto. Through this spring break programme, I wanted to introduce young people to 21st-century skill sets, help them build a sense of community, and provide them with meals and transportation—all at no cost to the participants, ensuring that no socioeconomic barriers stood in their way. I thought deeply about the impact a programme like this could have, researched whether anything similar existed at the time, and spoke to educators to gain their buy-in. I also sought financial partnerships to bring the idea to life and carefully considered how it could be scalable.

Eight years after launching our Créateurs z first camp, we have run multiple programmes, impacted over 400 participants, and built invaluable partnerships with Francophone school boards, universities, and the private sector. We've provided young people with hands-on experience in media and digital fields, equipped them with practical skills, and fostered a network of alumni who have gone on to pursue careers in creative and tech industries. What started as an idea has now become a movement, proving that when a great idea meets the right support and execution, its impact can be far-reaching.

If you have an idea that excites you, here are some key steps to determine whether it’s worth pursuing:

1. Validate the Need – Ask yourself: Does this idea solve a problem or fulfil a need? Research your target audience and see if there’s a gap in the market.

2. Do Your Research – A simple Google search can reveal if similar ideas exist, what has worked, and what hasn’t. Look at market trends, case studies, and consumer behaviour to refine your concept.

3. Seek Feedback – Talk to people in the industry, potential users, or mentors to gain insights and different perspectives. Buy-in from the right people can be crucial in bringing your idea to life.

4. Assess Feasibility – Even the boldest ideas need to be practical. Consider resources, funding, and scalability. Could this idea grow beyond its initial stage?

5. Follow Your Passion – Data and research are essential, but passion is what drives execution. If you can’t stop thinking about it and truly believe in its impact, that’s a sign you’re onto something great.

Ideas have power, but what makes them truly valuable is what you do with them. Whether you're brainstorming your next big move or refining a long-standing vision, taking the time to evaluate its potential will set you up for success.

Bisous,

Winy

What I’m reading

Gratitude has a powerful impact—not just on relationships but on our overall well-being. This article highlights how expressing thanks strengthens bonds and fosters positivity. I truly believe that your gratitude will determine your altitude in life. Read the article here.

Art that is inspiring my creativity:

Spring is just around the corner, and I can feel it. This past week in Paris has been fantastic, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 16°C and the sun shining down on us. The flowers are blooming, and I’m savouring every bit of it before we, unfortunately, have to leave.

Meanwhile, in London this month, a major exhibition opening next month at the Saatchi Gallery explores the profound presence of flowers in human life and creativity. Flowers: Flora in Contemporary Art and Culture brings together more than 500 photographs, installations, sculptures, archival pieces, and other objects, creating a rich landscape that spans millennia.

As always, if you need strategic advice pertaining to Branding, Communications, Digital strategy, or Marketing, or if you want to chat about a new project—or just say hi!—our boutique agency, Deux Creative, is here to help!