# Start a SaaS as a solo founder

URL: https://gocutline.com/playbooks/start-a-saas-as-a-solo-founder/

Start a SaaS as a solo founder: Build the smallest thing that someone will pay for, and let them shape the rest. 1) Find a boring, repeated problem in an industry you know. 2) Talk to 10 people with that problem, and ask how they solve it now. 3) Offer to solve it by hand first, for money.

## The steps
1. Find a boring, repeated problem in an industry you know.
2. Talk to 10 people with that problem, and ask how they solve it now.
3. Offer to solve it by hand first, for money.
4. Only then build the smallest version, in weeks and not in months.
5. Charge from day one: free users tell you little.
6. Talk to a customer every week, and ship something every week.

## Your first move in Cutline
Block two hours to list 20 people who have the problem and message them.

## Copy this
> Hi [name], I am looking into how [role] handle [problem]. Can I ask you three questions? No pitch, and I will share what I find.

## Make it a block
[Add it to your week in Cutline](https://app.gocutline.com/?plan=Start%20a%20SaaS%20as%20a%20solo%20founder%20120%20min%20on%20Monday%20at%209): one click and the time is blocked.

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Cutline: Cutline is a weekly calendar and planner that turns time blocks into XP, levels and streaks. You plan your week in blocks, tick each one off when it is done, and see your progress on a social feed (the Floor) and a weekly leaderboard (the Arena). Planning and budgeting are free; paid plans add a badge, posting, messaging, shared calendars and lower selling fees, from $9 a month. Pro is free to try for 7 days.
Facts: https://gocutline.com/facts/ · Updated 2026-11-06