Right Before It

Things to consider before launching a new software company.

1. build a niche website – get credibility
2. ask your family doctor (or a friend, non programmer) for opinions – find out what you’re missing
3. buy your competitors’ products – turn shortcomings into advantages
4. test your prototype with representative users – build not what you think people might want, build what they need.

Features That Matter Most

Companies like Google and Netscape knows what it takes to run a successful business. It is the business model, and not the product that determines success or failure of software companies. That’s what many start-ups have unhappily discovered for themselves.

I’ve still much to learn, yet something have learned on what start-ups should better do:

1. -remain a “product company” long enough to build a customer base, before offering customization and services
2. -run the business independently from distribution channel
3. -avoid appointing the chief engineer as business manager.