I've been following Maneesh for years. I met him while he was travelling around in the Himalayas. Crazy guy - making piles of money while spending most of his time DJing and travelling.
Shit! There are so many sites out there using this API. And many are totally dependent on it - location is the cornerstone of their model. Zaarly, Foodspotting, AirBnb, GetAround - every location-based P2P platform.
I guess this was inevitable. But maybe we can switch to a different maps API? Google is so smooth though.
Really? Smart move on their part. There's so many talented engineers in the developing world that are 'hungry for it' - Just what startup founders are looking for in a partner.
The deals space has long passed its climax. If you're going to be starting yet ANOTHER daily deals site, there needs to be some other unique angle used. Creating another mini-Groupon clone isn't going to cut it anymore.
Agreed. File sharing is the type of thing where you can't just rely on first-mover-advantage. Google has the ability and infrastructure to offer more space for free on more devices and platforms.
I agree. The term 'large economy,' when applied to the average person is an irrelevant term. For the average billionaire it means something, but to the average person (in our case, the average internet/mobile user) it means nothing. These old economic indicators do not measure the actual economic conditions in localities. Local economies have to be robust - that's the true sign of a progress.
In one generation the whole model of higher education will have to break down - this is absurd. I think we'll go back to more of a localized apprenticeship model, facilitated by technology.
I highly agree that the conventional 'job' is becoming obsolete. Technology is enabling us to live in a bottom-up world where we can add value individually. We don't have to to work for a company to add value. Imagine all the commerce that could be happening in a 5 mile radius from where you live - all the needs you could address to add value. And when you add value, you are rewarded financially. There is no recession.
Bottom line: too many sites try to have too many features - they should focus on having one prime functionality. It's like writing a paper - it has to have a thesis that is clear.
I would disagree that minimalism is dying. In fact, minimalism is key these days. Users are now bombarded with too many apps and websites. A minimalist app with a clear thesis (what does it do) is essential. People have to understand what your site DOES in 1 minute or less.
Another point I'd like to raise - If you're not introducing any new technology (just a new platform), then creating a new website or app is like starting a 'people movement.' You are actually aiming to change the culture and the way people interact with each other. When you're doing this, great programming, clear UI/UX, and a smooth functioning website are extremely important. At the same time, building the 'movement' requires passionate, charismatic, and outspoken business co-founders that can inspire others with their presence, writing, and speaking.
It will fail like Facebook offers because people are being absolutely inundated with these ridiculous deal sites. Someone come up with something original.