Ship
I can build and launch this in one week.
If it takes longer, the scope is too big. Simplify or postpone.
SICKNESS Framework
Sickness Labs
Every indie project dies of something. We diagnose what's killing yours — before it flatlines.
Scorecard
SICKNESS LABS
12 criteria. Rate each 1–3. If anything scores a 1 — that's a knockout.
S
I
Intuitive
Anyone understands the value without me explaining it.
Test on 3 people. If you're explaining for more than 30 seconds, rework the pitch.
C
Cost
I can fund this myself, no investor needed.
Calculate your runway — time and money. If you need funding, you're playing a different game.
K
Know
I know exactly who this is for.
Prove it with a specific name or community. "Everyone over 30" is not an answer.
N
Need
People actually need this and would pay for it today.
Ask real people — don't assume. Politeness is not validation.
E
Earn
This will make money with a clear pricing model.
Set a pricing model before launch. One-time sales are harder than recurring.
S
Space
The market has low competition and organic discoverability.
Check Google, App Store, Product Hunt. Without an organic channel, you need a budget.
S
Soul
This project is morally and ethically sound.
Projects without integrity drag and hurt. If you hesitate, the answer is no.
L
Lies
I am not telling myself things I know aren't true.
Every project has spots where you're lying to yourself. Write them down. If you can't disprove them with evidence, they're still lies — just better packaged.
A
Assumptions
I have verified my core assumptions with real evidence.
"People will want this." "We'll make money." "I can do it alone." Maybe. But until it's verified, it's just a story you're telling yourself.
B
Bullshit
I can name three weaknesses without starting each with "but."
Write down the three biggest weaknesses of the project. Read them again. If each one starts with "but" — those are excuses.
S
Stripped
What remains when you subtract lies, assumptions, and bullshit?
This is the real state of the project — no sugar-coating. If nothing remains, the idea isn't bad. It's just not ready yet.
Your Diagnosis
Rate all criteria to see your diagnosis.