Risky and Safe Assumptions

In order to mitigate the risks, it is suggested that entrepreneurs carefully identify assumptions and test their validity. Testing assumptions seem like a straight-forward process; identify, test, and adapt. However, Demetrius Madrigal and Bryan McClain argues that it's not that simple. They claim that there are two types of assumptions: risky assumptions or safe assumptions. [1] Risky assumptions are risky because they can result in huge monetary losses and damages to a company's brand. However, risky assumptions allow for innovation to occur. Bold companies who ascertain these risky assumptions and succeed will be rewarded handsomely. More importantly, these companies will set themselves apart from their competitors and own a particular niche market. An example of a risky assumption is "Customers will be willing to pay for this." In contrast, safe assumptions have less monetary risks and ramifications; however, the decision to be conservative can trump innovation and result in missed opportunities and valuable market share. An example of a safe assumption is "People wouldn't want to use that."

With limited startup capital, what type of assumptions would you bear? Personally, I would test my risky assumptions first because I want to be an innovator and differentiate myself from the  very start. I would rather pursue an opportunity and fail, instead of missing the opportunity altogether. Like the saying goes...you miss all the shots you don't take.

References:
1. Madrigal, Demetrius and Bryan McClain. Dealing with Risky and Safe Assumptions. April 5 2010. Available at: http://uxmatters.com/mt/archives/2010/04/dealing-with-risky-and-safe-assumptions.php