Tag: Startup

About Favoriot — Part X: Age Does Not Matter in Business

What is the Best Age to Become an Entrepreneur?

Is There an Ideal Age?

What is the best age to become an entrepreneur? Should you start with work experience or without any at all?

This question often affected my mind when I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey with Favoriot. As someone who has been involved in the tech world for a long time, I frequently wondered whether age plays a significant role in an entrepreneur’s success.

Some might argue that starting a business at a young age is the best option.

You have plenty of energy, new ideas always emerge, and the courage to take risks is high. However, if you are too young, you may lack relevant experience.

Conversely, you might have more experience and knowledge as you get older, but your energy and willingness to take significant risks might diminish.

The Misconception of Youthful Success

In the entrepreneurial world, there’s a common misconception that success belongs to the young.

Stories of young entrepreneurs who achieve great success often reinforce this view. However, the inspiring story of Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of KFC, proves that age is not a barrier to achieving great success.

Colonel Sanders started his venture to create a global fast-food empire at the age of 62, at a time when many people were considering retirement. His story isn’t just about achieving success later in life; it’s also about unwavering perseverance and debunking the myth of ‘overnight success.’

His success didn’t come overnight but resulted from a lifetime of experiences filled with challenges and valuable lessons.

Experience as a Valuable Asset

I often reflect on my journey with Favoriot. I started this venture at an age that some might consider late. However, I knew that the experience I had accumulated over the years in the tech industry was my most valuable asset.

I recall working at various companies and gaining experience in telecommunications and technology, which ultimately helped me develop Favoriot.

Much like how Colonel Sanders started KFC with two decades of experience in the food industry, I also began Favoriot with years of experience in technology and IoT.

This wasn’t a leap into the unknown but the result of continuous learning, courage, and a deep passion for technology.

I often tell myself, “It’s never too late to become what you want to be. Age is no obstacle to starting your entrepreneurial dream.”

Building From Scratch

One of the most fascinating aspects of Colonel Sanders’ story is how his secret chicken recipe was popular among locals even before KFC was established. This contrasts with many entrepreneurs, including myself, who often start with a blank canvas.

We strive to build brand identity and a customer base from the ground up. However, this challenge is also what makes the entrepreneurial journey so exciting.

Every entrepreneurial story is unique and has challenges, risks, and rewards.

I remember how I started Favoriot without any customers or major recognition. My team and I worked hard to build a name in the market.

Every day, we struggled to gain attention and convince customers of the value we offered. I recall how we frequently faced rejection, but like Colonel Sanders, we never gave up.

I often remind myself, “Resilience is the key in the world of entrepreneurship. Don’t let age or challenges stop you from achieving your dreams.”

Courage to Start

The courage to start something new is crucial, no matter your age.

From experience, I’ve learned that success in entrepreneurship doesn’t come from how early you start but from how strongly you persevere. Colonel Sanders’ story gives me the strength and confidence to keep fighting, even as I grow older.

I often tell myself, “Age is just a number. Dreams are timeless. Start now, start anytime.”

The Importance of Resilience

In the world of entrepreneurship, every step is a lesson. Every failure brings us closer to success. Like Colonel Sanders, who faced many rejections before his recipe was accepted, I, too, have faced various challenges and failures.

However, every time I fall, I get back up stronger.

This is the biggest lesson I’ve learned on this journey — resilience and perseverance are at the heart of an entrepreneur’s success.

Age is No Barrier

Colonel Sanders’ story also reminds me that age does not limit success. It’s about experience, resilience, and an unwavering spirit.

His story inspires anyone considering starting an entrepreneurial journey, regardless of age. Irrespective of the outcome, every entrepreneurial journey imparts invaluable lessons that shape and enrich our lives.

As I embark on this journey, I hold on to these truths, finding solace and inspiration in the paths tread by others like Colonel Sanders.

I realize that the best time to start was yesterday. The next best time is now, regardless of your age.

Critical Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

The critical lesson I’ve learned from Colonel Sanders’ story and my experience with Favoriot is that age is just a number.

Success in entrepreneurship is not age-dependent; it relies on resilience, experience, and the passion we bring.

Every life experience and skill we’ve learned along the way is a valuable asset in our entrepreneurial journey.

I’ve also learned that every entrepreneur’s journey is unique. We must embrace our journey with all the challenges and opportunities that come our way. Success doesn’t come easy, but with strong resilience and determination, it will eventually be achieved.

Adaptability is also crucial.

In a constantly changing world, we must always be ready to adapt to new circumstances and overcome any obstacles that arise.

Most importantly, we must believe in ourselves and our vision. I always remind myself that self-doubt is natural, but we cannot let it hinder our progress or dampen our spirits.

With solid confidence, burning passion, and unwavering perseverance, we can achieve anything we dream of in the world of entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneurship is a Journey of Learning

In conclusion, the entrepreneurial journey is about learning, resilience, and an undying passion.

No matter your age, you can succeed if you dare to start and continue with high spirits.

Success in entrepreneurship is not defined by age but by the resilience, experience, and passion we bring to every step.

About Favoriot — Part IX: Leaving the Comfort Zone

How Leaving a 30-Year Career to Build FAVORIOT Taught Me the True Meaning of Resilience, Adaptability, and Personal Growth.

I never thought the day would come when I’d leave behind the comfort of a stable paycheck and a corporate career spanned over three decades. For over 30 years, I climbed the ladder, navigating the structured world of management, cushioned by the perks that came with it.

It was a good life.

I had the luxury of business-class flights, expensive hotel stays, and the security of a regular, sizeable income. Yet, despite the success, something gnawed at me.

For years, I had nurtured a vision, an idea to revolutionize industries with the Internet of Things (IoT). FAVORIOT was the manifestation of that dream.

But, like many dreams, the reality of turning it into a viable business came with sacrifices that I hadn’t fully anticipated.

And boy, there have been plenty of those.

The Financial Rollercoaster

The first thing that hits you when you leap into entrepreneurship after decades in the corporate world is the financial shock. Imagine trading in the safety of a consistent income for the erratic, unpredictable rollercoaster of a startup’s finances.

One month, you might have some cash flow; the next, you’re staring at empty accounts, unsure how you’ll cover basic expenses.

It wasn’t long before the reality of the situation sunk in. I wasn’t drawing a salary. The reliable, monthly inflow I had been accustomed to was replaced by uncertainty.

This wasn’t the life I had envisioned. “What have I done?” I’d mutter to myself, looking at the financial spreadsheets in disbelief.

There were days I wondered if I had made the right decision if I had underestimated the financial challenges of running a startup.

But it was too late to turn back.

FAVORIOT had become my mission.

I was no longer just Mazlan Abbas, the corporate executive. I was now Mazlan Abbas, the entrepreneur responsible for my team and the vision we had set out to achieve.

Adjusting to New Realities

With the financial uncertainty came a drastic shift in my lifestyle. Gone were the days of business-class flights and luxury hotels. My new reality involved budgeting carefully, stretching every ringgit, and reconsidering what I once deemed essential.

I vividly remember a moment when I was about to upgrade my laptop. It was something I wouldn’t have thought twice about before.

But now, standing in the store, I had to pause. “Do I need this?” I asked myself.

The answer was no.

I could make do with the one I had for a little longer. Every ringgit saved could go back into the business.

Vacations became a thing of the past, too.

We scaled back overseas trips and made do with local getaways when possible. I had to remind myself that these sacrifices were temporary, all part of the bigger picture.

But that didn’t make it any easier.

When you’ve spent years living a certain way, adjusting to a more frugal lifestyle can be difficult.

Cutting Back on Personal Luxuries

Starting a business from scratch means cutting back on personal luxuries. I had to say goodbye to spontaneous upgrades of gadgets like phones and computers.

The days of regularly splurging on the latest tech were behind me. Instead, I evaluated every potential purchase, asking, “Is this essential?” more times than I could count.

I missed the freedom I once had to spend money on what I wanted when I wanted. But there is something humbling about scaling back. It teaches you discipline and forces you to focus on what truly matters.

My priorities shifted.

Gadgets and luxuries became less important as I poured my energy, time, and resources into growing FAVORIOT.

It wasn’t easy. I won’t lie.

There were moments of frustration when I wanted to throw my hands in the air and shout, “Why am I doing this?” But deep down, I knew why. I believe in FAVORIOT and its potential to make a significant impact.

And that belief was enough to keep me going.

Navigating Uncertainty and Isolation

The sacrifices weren’t just financial or material. Entrepreneurship has an emotional toll, one that I hadn’t fully anticipated.

You’re constantly navigating uncertainty, making decisions with no guarantees of success. Every day felt like a tightrope, and you were unsure if the next step would bring progress or disaster.

And then there’s the isolation.

Running a startup can be a lonely endeavor. Sure, I had a team, but responsibility was mine to carry. There were moments when I felt utterly alone, questioning whether the sacrifices were worth it.

“Is this what I want?” I’d ask myself during sleepless nights, staring at the ceiling. The answer wasn’t always straightforward.

But in those moments of doubt, you learn the most about yourself.

You discover your resilience, your ability to push through even when the path ahead seems uncertain. I slowly realized that this journey wasn’t just about building a business. It was about building myself, too.

Perseverance and Growth

Over time, I started to see the challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth. Each setback, every moment of doubt, taught me something.

I learned to adapt, persevere, and trust in the process.

I remember one particular instance when we struggled to secure a deal that could have made a vast difference for FAVORIOT. Days turned into weeks, and the uncertainty weighed heavily on me.

I was frustrated and anxious and started to second-guess everything. But then, a colleague said something that stuck with me: “Mazlan, every ‘no’ gets us one step closer to the right ‘yes.’”

That shifted my perspective.

I stopped seeing rejections and setbacks as failures and started seeing them as part of the journey.

They were lessons in disguise, pushing me to refine our approach, strengthen our offerings, and grow as a leader.

Reflecting on the Sacrifices

So, is it worth it? The financial uncertainty, the lifestyle changes, the emotional toll — is the entrepreneurial journey worth the sacrifices?

For me, the answer is yes.

But it’s a profoundly personal question every entrepreneur must answer for themselves.

I’ve had to give up more than I ever anticipated.

But in return, I’ve gained something far more valuable. I’ve learned resilience, adaptability, and the importance of perseverance. I’ve experienced personal growth in ways I never imagined possible. And I’ve had the privilege of building something from the ground up, watching FAVORIOT evolve from an idea into a reality.

But more than that, I’ve realized entrepreneurship isn’t just about financial success or personal achievement. It’s about impacting, creating something that matters, and leaving a legacy beyond yourself.

FAVORIOT is more than just a business to me.

It’s a mission, a purpose, and a testament to what’s possible when you’re willing to take risks and make sacrifices.

The Entrepreneur’s Mindset

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned on this journey is the importance of embracing uncertainty.

As an entrepreneur, you step into a world where nothing is guaranteed. Success is not promised, and failure is always lurking around the corner.

But that’s what makes it so exciting.

Every day is a new challenge and opportunity to grow, learn, and adapt. It’s not always easy, but it’s gratifying. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, resilience is the backbone of entrepreneurship.

You must pick yourself up after every setback, learn from your mistakes, and keep moving forward.

The Power of Community and Support

On this journey, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the importance of community and support. Entrepreneurship can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be.

Surrounding yourself with mentors, fellow entrepreneurs, friends, and family who believe in your vision is crucial.

They provide not only emotional support but also fresh perspectives and opportunities.

I’ve been fortunate to have a robust support system, and it’s made all the difference.

They’ve been there to celebrate the victories, no matter how small, and to offer a listening ear during the tough times.

It’s a reminder that while entrepreneurship can feel like a solo journey, it’s a collective effort.

The Entrepreneurial Journey is Yours to Define

As I reflect on my journey with FAVORIOT, I recognize the sacrifices I’ve made and the immense growth I’ve experienced. It’s been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, but I wouldn’t change a thing.

The challenges, the setbacks, and the sacrifices have all shaped me into the entrepreneur I am today.

For those considering this path, know that it’s not easy.

The sacrifices are real, and the journey is fraught with uncertainty.

But if you’re willing to embrace the challenges, learn from every experience, and keep pushing forward, the personal and professional rewards are worth it.

Entrepreneurship is more than just a career choice.

It’s a mindset, a way of life, and a journey of self-discovery.

Despite all the sacrifices, it’s been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life.

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About Favoriot — Part VIII: Missed Opportunities

How Overcoming the Frustration of Unanswered Emails and Missed Opportunities Shaped My Entrepreneurial Journey

Regenerated using Glam

In the early days of building FAVORIOT, I would wake up every morning excitedly. I was fuelled by the vision of what we could achieve with the Internet of Things (IoT).

The endless possibilities of how IoT could revolutionize industries danced in my mind, and I was eager to bring these visions to life. It was an exhilarating time filled with the hope and energy of starting something new.

I remember those initial days vividly.

Every meeting felt like an opportunity to make a difference. I would sit across from potential customers and partners, passionately sharing FAVORIOT’s vision.

Their faces lit up with interest, and I could see the wheels turning in their heads. They nodded along, asked insightful questions, and expressed genuine enthusiasm for what we were doing. I would leave those meetings on a high, thinking, “This is it. They see the potential just like I do.”

Regenerated using Glam

But my excitement waned as the days turned weeks and weeks into months. I checked my inbox repeatedly, waiting for that follow-up email that never seemed to come. The silence was deafening. It wasn’t just disappointing; it was maddening.

I had poured my heart into those presentations and shared our vision with all the enthusiasm I could muster, and yet, I was still waiting for a response.

“Why can’t they just say no?” I would grumble to myself, pacing the floor of my office.

It seemed so simple.

A clear rejection would be far better than this agonizing uncertainty. I could move on, refocus my efforts, and find other opportunities. But this silence? It was like being stuck in limbo, unsure whether to wait or to move on.

Regenerated using Glam

I wasn’t just sitting idly by, though. I made countless follow-up calls, sent numerous emails, and tried every way I knew to reignite the interest we had once shared.

But more often than not, these efforts were met with continued silence. It felt like I was shouting into a void, hoping for an echo that never came. The optimism that had fuelled me initially was slowly replaced by frustration and doubt.

The worst was when the silence was eventually broken, not by a response to my follow-ups but by news that stung even more. I would discover that the same potential partners or customers who had once shown interest in FAVORIOT had partnered with someone else. It wasn’t just a professional setback; it felt like a personal betrayal.

“How could they?” I would mutter, shaking my head in disbelief. “We had something good here. Why didn’t they give us a chance?”

Regenerated using Glam

This cycle of initial excitement, followed by prolonged silence and eventual rejection, was a bitter pill to swallow. Each instance reminded me of the unpredictable nature of business and the often-unspoken dynamics that influence decisions.

It was tough, really tough.

There were days when I questioned everything. Was it me? Was it the product? Was it something I said or didn’t say? Self-doubt crept in, gnawing away at my confidence.

Amidst these frustrations, I sought advice from other entrepreneurs who had walked this path before me.

One conversation stands out.

I was speaking with a seasoned business owner who had faced similar challenges in his early days.

“Mazlan,” he said, looking me straight in the eye, “this is part of the game. You’ll face many who won’t have the courtesy to say no outright. It’s not about you or your product; sometimes, they’re just not ready, or they’ve found something that fits their immediate needs better.”

His words were both comforting and sobering. On one hand, it was a relief to know that I wasn’t alone in this experience. On the other hand, it reinforced the harsh reality of the business world — people won’t always be upfront, and not every opportunity will pan out.

Regenerated using Glam

It was a harsh lesson, but one that I needed to learn.

Reflecting on those early experiences, I realized how much I had grown since then. The frustrations that once seemed overwhelming were now seen in a different light. Each rejection and moment of silence taught me valuable lessons in patience and perseverance.

During these quiet times, I learned to refine our offerings, improve our pitch, and, most importantly, never take rejections personally.

I began to change my approach. Instead of waiting passively for responses, I became more proactive during initial meetings.

“What are your primary concerns?” I would ask. How can we better meet your needs?” This shift in strategy not only helped gauge genuine interest but also provided valuable insights into potential customers’ minds.

Regenerated using Glam

I learned to identify the signals of genuine interest versus polite engagement, allowing me to focus my efforts more effectively.

This new approach paid off. Instead of chasing every opportunity, I focused on building a more robust network of reliable partners who understood and appreciated our vision.

These partnerships, while fewer in number, were far more fruitful. They led to significant breakthroughs for FAVORIOT, and we began to collaborate on projects showcasing IoT’s real potential.

Gradually, we started building our reputation and credibility in the industry.

One particularly memorable project was collaborating with a city council on a smart city initiative. It was a long shot, but our persistence paid off. The project was a resounding success and was proof of concept for many who doubted us.

Regenerated using Glam

It was a turning point, not just for FAVORIOT, but for me. It validated the sleepless nights, the endless follow-ups, and the resilience required to get us to that point.

Looking back, I realize that those early frustrations were a necessary part of the journey. They tested my commitment to FAVORIOT’s vision and forced me to develop a thicker skin.

More importantly, they taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of learning from every positive or negative experience.

Today, as I stand on the other side of those challenges, I often share these lessons with budding entrepreneurs. I tell them that the path to success is rarely straightforward.

It’s filled with unexpected twists and turns, moments of doubt, and frustration.

But each challenge is an opportunity to grow, learn, and improve.

“If I could give you one piece of advice,” I often say, “it’s never to let silence discourage you. Use it to reflect, improve, and prepare for the next opportunity. Because, trust me, there will always be another opportunity.”

Regenerated using Glam

Ultimately, the journey of building FAVORIOT has been as much about personal growth as it has been about professional achievement.

The early frustrations, the silent rejections, and the moments of doubt have all shaped me into the entrepreneur I am today.

And for that, I am grateful.

The road ahead remains challenging, but with each step, I carry the lessons of the past, ready to face whatever comes next.

I now approach each new opportunity cautiously and optimistically, knowing that the silence that once frustrated me is another part of the process.

This process has made me stronger, more resilient, and more determined than ever to see FAVORIOT succeed.

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About Favoriot – Part VII: The Task of Finding the First 10 Customers

ABOUT FAVORIOT SERIES

The Challenges of Securing Favoriot’s First 10 Customers

Many say that the first breakthrough for a startup is when you get 10 paying customers. This saying holds true.

Every startup developing a product feels the pressure when struggling to get those first 10 customers, and even the very first customer can be challenging.

I still remember the moment when Favoriot received its first paid subscription. “Finally, we did it!” I exclaimed to my team with joy. We were overjoyed, envisioning continuous success. Unfortunately, the joy was short-lived.

Why Is It So Difficult?

I sat pondering, “Is our product not satisfying the customers? Or maybe it doesn’t solve their problems? Or is the price too high?” Many questions ran through my mind. I knew I had to find the answers. “We need to make this product more appealing,” I told myself.

We tried improving the product and experimented with different pricing, but the results were the same.

I found myself puzzled, “Why do ThingSpeak and Blynk have so many users?” We also offered free subscriptions like they did, but the outcome was not satisfactory.

On average, only 5% of free users would convert to paid. Although we achieved this percentage, it still did not meet our revenue targets.

A New Strategy

I began thinking of other strategies. “How about we bundle the product?” I suggested to my team.

We started combining the Favoriot platform with our IoT courses. This approach began to show success. I told myself, “This is a good start, but we can do better.”

Then, we introduced the Enterprise Favoriot IoT platform with a perpetual license. This new package attracted a lot of interest from System Integrators.

I felt this was the right move. “I hope this will bring more success to Favoriot,” I silently prayed.

Lessons Learned

This experience taught me many things. First of all, I learned that getting the first customers is indeed tough, but it is a crucial step. I always tell my team, “Never give up. Every small step is a big achievement.”

I also learned that a good product alone is not enough. “We need to understand the customers’ needs and ensure our product truly solves their problems,” I constantly remind myself.

We strive to understand our customers’ desires and requirements.

Pricing plays a crucial role as well. “A price that’s too high might scare off customers,” I realized.

We tried to find a balance between reasonable pricing and the value we offer.

Moving Forward

Now, with the new Enterprise Favoriot IoT package, we are more confident moving forward. I told my team, “This is a new beginning for Favoriot. We’ve faced many challenges, but we’ve overcome them.”

I also believe that success does not come easily. “It requires continuous effort and persistence,” I always remind myself.

We will keep working to improve our product and find new ways to attract more customers.

Hopes for the Future

I have great hopes for Favoriot. I always think, “How can we make Favoriot a leading IoT platform?” I believe with effort and dedication, we can achieve it.

Whenever I look back at our journey, I feel proud of what we have accomplished. “We’ve faced many challenges, but we never gave up,” I tell myself.

I am confident that with continuous spirit and effort, Favoriot will keep growing and achieving greater success.

Finally, I want to thank everyone who has supported us throughout this journey. “Without your support, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” I say sincerely.

We will keep striving to deliver the best and achieve more successes in the future.

This is the story behind Favoriot – a journey full of challenges, but also full of hope and opportunities. I believe that with effort and dedication, we can achieve anything we dream of.

About Favoriot – Part VI: Expanding the Business Models

The Evolution of Favoriot from B2C to B2B and Global Reach

Regenerated by Glam

When we first launched the Favoriot IoT platform, we envisioned it as a B2C service.

The idea was simple – create a platform that anyone, from students to hobbyists, could use to build IoT applications.

By targeting individuals, we could generate widespread interest and slowly build a community around our platform. I remember thinking, “If we can get people talking about Favoriot, the rest will follow.”

With that mindset, we set out to promote the platform. Social media was the obvious choice. Everyone was on Facebook, YouTube was the go-to for tutorials, and newer platforms like TikTok were quickly gaining popularity.

So, we took the plunge. I took charge of the promotion, using my social media channels to spread the word. I posted on Facebook, made videos for YouTube, wrote blog posts, and even tried my hand at TikTok.

Regenerated by Glam

At first, it was exciting to see the initial reactions. People were interested; they were curious about what Favoriot could do.

But as the weeks went by, I started to feel a sense of unease. Sure, there were some engagements – likes, shares, comments – but it wasn’t translating into actual usage of the platform. I kept asking myself, “Why isn’t this working? What are we missing?”

I realized that while social media was great for generating buzz, it wasn’t enough to convince people to take the next step.

I needed something more tangible that would tell people about Favoriot and show them how it could be valuable to them.

That’s when the idea of writing an eBook came to me. I’ve always enjoyed writing, so why not use that skill to create something that could educate people about IoT and subtly introduce them to Favoriot simultaneously?

IoT eBook

So, I got to work. The eBook wasn’t just about the technical aspects of IoT; it was about the broader picture – how IoT transforms industries, what it means for the future, and where Favoriot fits into this. Throughout the book, I weaved in information about the Favoriot platform, highlighting its features and how it could help users in their IoT projects.

Once the eBook was ready, we decided to offer it for free. I thought that if we could get the book into as many hands as possible, it would naturally lead to more people trying out the platform.

And it worked. The eBook started getting downloaded, not just locally, but internationally. I was amazed to see the download statistics – people from almost 120 countries had downloaded the book!

I remember sitting at my desk, looking at the numbers, and thinking, “This is it. This is the breakthrough we’ve been waiting for.”

But with this new wave of international interest came a new set of challenges. The platform was designed for a general audience, but now we have users worldwide, each with unique needs.

We started receiving feedback from users who wanted more advanced features, better scalability, and the ability to use the platform in a more professional setting. It was clear that the B2C model had its limitations.

Around this time, we began exploring the idea of pivoting to a B2B model. The thought of shifting our focus was daunting, but I knew it was something we had to consider seriously.

We had to evolve if we wanted Favoriot to grow and thrive. I spent many sleepless nights pondering over the decision. “Is this the right move? What if it doesn’t work out?”

Eventually, after much deliberation and discussion with the team, we decided to go for it. We introduced a B2B model where the Favoriot platform could be installed on-premise or on a private cloud.

This shift allowed us to cater to System Integrators – companies that needed a robust IoT platform to develop complex projects, manage high data transmissions, and ensure that all data was securely stored within their infrastructure.

Another critical decision was the introduction of the “perpetual” license. Unlike traditional subscription models, which required customers to pay recurring fees, this license was a one-time purchase.

Regenerated by Glam

It provided lifetime access to the platform, making it a more cost-effective option for long-term projects. I remember thinking, “This could be a game-changer.” Our customers’ cost savings were substantial, allowing them to offer end-to-end IoT solutions more quickly and at a lower cost.

This shift to B2B didn’t just open up new revenue streams for Favoriot; it also solidified our position in the market.

We were addressing a significant pain point in the industry by providing a reliable and scalable platform that didn’t require customers to build their own IoT infrastructure from scratch.

Developing an IoT platform is no small feat – it requires time, money, and expertise many companies don’t have. By offering Favoriot as a ready-made solution, we were able to fill that gap.

Since 2017, the Favoriot IoT platform has undergone many changes. What started as a simple B2C platform has evolved into a versatile solution catering to individual developers and large enterprises.

And along the way, we’ve achieved some significant milestones. One of my proudest moments was when Favoriot received MySTI certification from MOSTI, officially marking it as a Malaysian local product.

This recognition validated our efforts and positioned Favoriot as a credible and reliable IoT platform on a national level.

Looking back, I can see how far we’ve come. The journey hasn’t been easy, and there were moments when I doubted whether we would ever get to this point.

But through perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to listen to our users, we’ve built something that we can truly be proud of.

But the story doesn’t end here. There are still many challenges ahead, primarily as we work to penetrate the Malaysian market further.

In Part VII, I’ll share more about those challenges and how we plan to overcome them.

The road ahead is long, but I’m confident that with the lessons we’ve learned and the team we have, Favoriot will continue to grow and make an impact in the IoT industry.

So, stay tuned. The journey of Favoriot is far from over, and I’m excited to see where it will take us next.

Past Stories to Read:

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About Favoriot – Part V: Find Product-Market Fit to Survive

Finding the Right Fit: The Early Challenges and Breakthroughs of Favoriot

At Favoriot’s booth — Regenerated by Glam

I still remember how difficult it was to secure our first ten customers, even though the Favoriot Platform was offered for free initially.

Despite the offer, it wasn’t easy to attract interest. At that time, I was genuinely worried. I kept wondering, would this product succeed? Or would it just become another obsolete product forgotten shortly after its launch?

“Is all this effort going to be in vain?” That was the question that often crossed my mind. What if the product we had developed with such dedication wasn’t accepted by the market? What if all the hard work my team put in, tirelessly day and night, to make Favoriot a success, didn’t bear fruit?

I knew I couldn’t let them down. My team had given their best, and as their leader, I couldn’t allow their efforts to go to waste.

But as time went on, I felt more and more pressure to ensure that Favoriot found its rightful place in the market.

I often sat and pondered, sometimes late into the night, trying to figure out how to gain the necessary market traction. Market traction isn’t something easily achieved, especially when you’re a new player in a competitive industry like IoT.

At Favoriot’s booth — Regenerated by Glam

At first, we started by offering Favoriot to individuals. We targeted university students and freelancers who might be interested in using the platform for their projects.

But even with this strategy, the results were not what we had hoped for. I began to think that maybe our approach wasn’t quite right.

I then considered, “Perhaps we should offer this platform to university lecturers.” They had students involved in IoT projects, so maybe they would see the value in Favoriot.

But unfortunately, this effort also didn’t yield satisfying results. I began to feel anxious. “What else can we do?” I asked myself, searching for a way forward.

We then shifted our focus to offering Favoriot directly to customers. We tried introducing the platform to companies and organizations that might need IoT solutions.

However, once again, a new challenge arose. Many didn’t know how to use the platform. “Are we too early to the market?” I wondered. Maybe, at that time, awareness of IoT among customers wasn’t mature enough.

At Favoriot’s booth — Regenerated by Glam

In the startup world, there’s a concept known as “Product-Market Fit” (PMF). This is the point where your product truly meets the needs of the market.

If you don’t achieve PMF quickly, your product might fail. And I knew that if Favoriot didn’t reach PMF, there was a high chance we would have to shut down operations.

But I didn’t give up. I kept searching for the right customers, those who truly needed what Favoriot offered.

After many trials and errors, we finally found that the best customers for our platform were IoT System Integrators. These were companies or individuals who provided IoT solutions to their own customers. They needed a platform like Favoriot to build IoT applications that could meet the specific needs of their clients.

Finally, Favoriot found its way. We started offering the platform in two models – cloud-based and enterprise-based.

The cloud-based model was for customers who wanted a more flexible solution that could be accessed from anywhere. Meanwhile, the enterprise-based model was more suited for System Integrators who wanted full control over their platform.

This model came with a perpetual license and unlimited API, allowing them to build IoT applications without worrying about the high API costs typically charged by other major platforms like AWS or Azure.

With this discovery, Favoriot began to find its place in the market. I felt a bit of relief, but at the same time, I knew that the journey was far from over.

We still needed to continue innovating and ensuring that the platform remained relevant in an ever-changing industry.

But at least now, I was more confident that Favoriot had a bright future.

This isn’t the end of the story. I will continue to share our journey, how we found other customers, and how we grew Favoriot into one of the leading IoT platforms. But that will be in the next part.

Stay with me on this journey, because I believe that every step we take has its own story that can inspire those striving in the startup world.

In the next part, I will share more about who else became customers of the Favoriot IoT Platform and how we won their hearts.

About Favoriot — Part IV: Finding the Right Market Fit

Behind the Scenes of Favoriot IoT Platform — Part IV

When we developed the Favoriot IoT Platform, it wasn’t meant for everyone but just for our use. My team and I sought ways to overcome our problems managing IoT data at that time. The existing platforms did not fully meet our needs, so we developed our own.

However, when I saw foreign IoT platforms like ThingSpeak and Blynk being widely used in higher education institutions in Malaysia, I thought, “Why don’t we offer the same thing?”

Our platform could also benefit students and researchers in Malaysia. We just needed to find a way to introduce Favoriot more effectively.

Whenever I was invited to give an IoT lecture at a university, I would introduce Favoriot and give students free access. I hoped these students would use our platform in their projects and expand its use.

However, reality did not match my expectations.

My main problem was that ThingSpeak and Blynk were still the preferred choices. I wondered, “Why is that?” After some investigation, I found that one of the main reasons was the lack of video tutorials and learning content on our platform.

ThingSpeak and Blynk had a lot of content that made it easy for students and researchers to understand and use their platforms.

“I need to do something,” I thought. I started encouraging students or anyone using Favoriot to share their tutorial videos on YouTube. However, I realized that not many were willing to spend the time to create educational content.

Understandably, Malaysians are reluctant to create scholarly content. So, we developed several YouTube tutorials and used social media like TikTok to introduce Favoriot.

Initially, only students used Favoriot. I often wondered, “Will this effort succeed? Can we compete with the bigger platforms?” However, I kept trying and did not give up. Gradually, the results started to show.

Students and many external organizations use Favoriot for various applications in agriculture, industry, smart cities, security, etc.

I feel very grateful. “Alhamdulillah… this effort will not stop here.” We continue to introduce several unique ways to use Favoriot that differ from what ThingSpeak or Blynk offers. We continually strive to improve our platform and ensure it meets users’ needs better.

This story is not over yet.

I have much more to share about our journey in developing the Favoriot IoT Platform.

Stay tuned for Part V, where I will discuss our challenges and successes.

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About Favoriot — Part III: The Growing Pains

The Story Behind Favoriot IoT Platform — Part III

In 2019, we began offering our self-developed IoT services. However, no one wanted to use it. I still remember how hard it was to get our first customers. We offered it for free to the first ten customers, but that wasn’t easy.

“Why doesn’t anyone want to use our platform?” I asked myself almost every night. “Is there something wrong with our product, or is there something we missed?”

It turned out the problem wasn’t with our product. The real issue was that most people didn’t know how to use an IoT platform. They lacked knowledge about IoT. It was a hard truth to accept, but I knew we had to do something.

As an Industry Advisory Panel member at several universities, I started suggesting changes in their curriculum. “We need to teach students how to use IoT technology more systematically,” I said in meetings with lecturers and deans. I hoped these changes would help increase students’ understanding of IoT.

Slowly, I saw changes happening. Many universities have started offering more systematic IoT courses. However, I faced a significant challenge when I saw many students choosing Blynk and ThingSpeak as their primary choices for their final-year projects.

“Why aren’t they using Favoriot?” I wondered again. “What does our platform lack?”

I knew I couldn’t give up. I had to keep working hard to introduce the Favoriot IoT Platform to the public. I began organizing many seminars and workshops to introduce this platform. I would stand in front of the participants each time and passionately explain the advantages of using Favoriot.

“This platform is not just for students but also for professionals and large companies,” I always said. “It can be used for larger R&D projects and other commercial projects.”

The Favoriot IoT Platform started to become well-known slowly. Users began to see the potential and benefits offered by our platform.

Finally, in 2024, we managed to get 80% of Favoriot platform users from Malaysia. Out of 8,800 users, the majority were from our own country.

I felt proud of this achievement. “We did it,” I told my team. “We have proven that we can compete with other platforms.”

The Favoriot IoT Platform is now used to collect data for larger R&D projects and other commercial projects. Our journey is still long, but this success gives me confidence that we are on the right track.

(This story will continue in Part IV)

Want to read Part I & II?

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About Favoriot — Part II: Building the Products

The Story Behind Favoriot IoT Platform — Part II

See the previous post for Part I.

The Favoriot IoT Platform was not our first commercial IoT product. Before this IoT Platform, we had developed two other IoT products, namely Raqib and Favorsense, but both failed in the market.

I still remember the first time we introduced Raqib. “This product will bring a revolution,” I told my team. However, reality was not as beautiful as imagined. We faced various unexpected challenges, from technical issues to marketing.

Favorsense, although it had a good concept, still couldn’t attract user interest. I sat in the office, pondering our failures. “What went wrong? Where was the mistake?” I asked myself. Two products, two failures. It wasn’t a good statistic.

However, behind Raqib’s failure, there was one component that survived — the Favoriot IoT Platform. We realized that this platform had great potential. “This platform can be used by anyone who wants to develop their own IoT products,” I told my team. With renewed enthusiasm, we decided to shift our focus. We started offering the Favoriot IoT Platform for free.

But, even though the platform was free, many didn’t know how to use it. “Why aren’t they using it?” I asked. “We’ve published many videos and info, but still, many don’t know how to use it.” It was really disappointing.

We didn’t give up. I knew there was a way to solve this problem. “We need to give them more guidance,” I told the team. So, we started offering IoT courses using the Favoriot IoT Platform. These courses were designed to help users understand and apply the platform in their projects.

This step turned out to be successful. Now, more than 16 universities and polytechnics in Malaysia have been using the Favoriot IoT Platform for their students’ final-year projects. “This is a major achievement,” I said proudly. These students learn about IoT and gain practical experience using a real platform.

I often visit these universities to give lectures and see how students are using our platform. “This is great, how do you use Favoriot for this project?” I asked a student. Seeing their joy and enthusiasm gives me immense satisfaction. I know we are on the right track.

Now, we are working on introducing the Favoriot IoT Platform in foreign universities. “The global market is the next step,” I told the team. We are discussing with several universities abroad and hope to see students worldwide using our platform soon.

However, this journey is not without challenges. I often ask myself, “How can we continuously improve and enhance this platform?” In the ever-evolving technology industry, we need always to stay ahead.

Every night, before sleeping, I reflect on our journey. “We have learned a lot from our failures,” I tell myself. From those failures, the Favoriot IoT Platform was born and is now Malaysia’s main pulse in IoT education.

This success is not just mine but the entire Favoriot team’s. “Thank you, everyone,” I always tell them. Without their commitment and hard work, we wouldn’t be where we are today.

I know our journey is still long. “This is just the beginning,” I often tell the team. With an undying spirit, we will continue to move forward, facing new challenges and achieving greater success.

We have proven that with effort and dedication, failure is not the end but the beginning of something greater. The Favoriot IoT Platform is solid proof that from failure, success can be born.

(To be continued in Part III)

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About Favoriot – Part I: The Beginning

ABOUT FAVORIOT SERIES

The Story Behind Favoriot IoT Platform – Part I

I still remember when we started developing the Favoriot IoT Platform back in 2017. At that time, we were in a small room with only a handful of dedicated staff.

The original idea came from the need to create a platform that could support our first IoT product, called Raqib.

“Can we really compete with giants like AWS and Azure?” I often asked myself.

We knew the challenge wasn’t small. Many outsiders didn’t know us and doubted the capabilities of this newly developed platform. However, we remained determined. We were confident in our technology’s potential and capabilities.

In 2019, we decided to offer the Favoriot IoT Platform to the public for free. “Perhaps this is the best way to attract attention and build an early user base,” I thought. However, the response we received was very disappointing. Only a handful showed interest.

“We need to do something more than this,” I discussed with the team. “We must find a way to introduce this platform to more people.”

At that time, the idea of offering IoT courses emerged. We realized that one of the best ways to attract users was by teaching them about IoT’s importance and utility while introducing our platform. These courses not only allowed participants to learn about IoT but also to try out the Favoriot IoT Platform themselves.

“Will they be interested? What if no one registers?” Many questions played out in my mind.

Alhamdulillah, this step bore fruit. Through the IoT courses, we introduced the Favoriot IoT Platform to more users. The response we received was very encouraging. We saw a significant increase in the number of users of our platform. Today, the Favoriot IoT Platform has over 8800 users from 120 countries.

“I can’t believe we’ve come this far,” I shared my joy with the team. “This is just the beginning. We still have a lot to achieve.”

Now, we aspire to expand to neighboring countries. I am confident that the Favoriot IoT Platform can achieve even greater success with effort and dedication.

“Ready for the next phase?” I asked the team. Their answer was clear – we are ready to conquer the IoT world.

This is a glimpse of the story behind the development of the Favoriot IoT Platform. Each step was taken with great care and a high fighting spirit. We believe that with hard work and determination, nothing is impossible.

Stay tuned for our journey in Part II, where I will share more challenges and successes we’ve experienced along the way.