Apply HN: SLOOP – Solving problems by reaching problems

Problem: Usually whenever there's a problem people would resort to social networks, Q&A websites or protestations. But there's mainly three problems with these substitutes such as the : (1) intended use, (2) reach and (3) audience. 1. Fundamentally, none of theses websites were designed to be used this way. Social networks connect people to each others and Q&A websites are meant for people who need specific answers to specific questions. 2. For a problem to be seen and discussed it needs to go viral. But what if it doesn't ? 3. What happens if you don’t know who to speak with ? Nothing.

Solution : A platform where people can discuss problems they have (or observe) and find solutions.

How would it work? Mr A post a problem. Mr B propose a solution. If Mr A approves the solution provided by Mr B then the problem is considered solved. If not, an email will be sent to Mr A (along with anyone who has interacted with the post) listing handpicked products or services that may solve the problem.

Business model: - Ads(Global Discussions only) - Sponsored Global Discussions(like Quora’s knowledge prizes). - Partnerships(e.g: PH, Quora, Stripe..) the benefits of this lies in the quality of people it can attract and the help it can provide. - Weekly newsletter:Startups, Apps developers, entrepreneurs will have to pay a fee to have their product listed. - Every problem posted could be a potential business opportunity (à la netflix : http://bit.ly/1OAXFpt).

Competition: Reddit for the time being is a fearsome player but its approach in the discussion space will always leave room for other players. Facebook and Twitter: even though this is not what they were created for, they do have the resources to create similar solutions (like facebook did with Fundraiser).

Mockup: http://goo.gl/Lttmp9