Questions

About to start building a product and another small but successful startup offers an API that would give us a core piece of functionality we are looking for. They aren't really a direct competitor so partnering with them could lead to building some great relationships in our space. On the other hand it leaves us kind of vulnerable, knowing how fast a company like this can pivot and leave us on the dust. Any insight would be helpful!

As someone who has both practiced lean startup methodologies, as well as someone who values their own time.

Go with the small startup's API until you have other resources other than yourself who can develop better than you can. It's just not worth getting tied up reinventing the wheel when it si your job to defer, outsource (elance, odesk, freelancer.com, guru.com, gun.io,) or lisence their code. Your responsibility is to move the company forward in big steps toward its core mission. Not tackling something because you think you could do it.

If you would like to discuss this further, give me a call. On the house.

When you wake up in the morning, say to yourself "Get to that MVP" 3x. Saying that would make the answer to this question a no brainer!

Good luck!


Answered 9 years ago

Unlock Startups Unlimited

Access 20,000+ Startup Experts, 650+ masterclass videos, 1,000+ in-depth guides, and all the software tools you need to launch and grow quickly.

Already a member? Sign in

Copyright © 2024 Startups.com LLC. All rights reserved.