Have you got a short runway for your startup?

Introduction: In the fast-paced world of #startups, having a short runway and limited resources can be a daunting challenge. However, by embracing a sense of urgency and implementing strategies to overcome inertia, startups can build momentum and achieve their goals within the allotted time and budget. In this article, we will explore the concept of short runways, the importance of creating a culture of urgency, and how a well-balanced team can help drive momentum towards building a successful Minimum Viable Product (#MVP).

Short Runway: In startup terminology, a short runway refers to having limited funding and a tight timeline to deliver the #MVP to users. The clock is ticking, and it becomes crucial to ensure that the flight takes off before the runway runs out. This urgency sets the stage for efficient and focused work.

Parkinson's Law and Creating Urgency: Parkinson's Law states that work expands to fill the time allotted for its completion. In the context of startups, it is essential to adjust expectations and create a culture of urgency. By instilling a sense of urgency in the team, work contracts to fit within the available time. This philosophy becomes the driving force behind meeting deadlines and pushing for progress.

A real-life example: Consider the case of Bob, who approached me for assistance with his tech startup. Bob had a short runway, having already lost two months before reaching out. Initially, he hired two top-notch developers, believing that would be sufficient. However, despite their skills and hard work, they struggled to make significant progress.

Overcoming inertia: Recognizing the lack of focus and inertia as the main impediment, we made a critical decision. We expanded the tech team by adding three additional developers who could wear flexible hats, adapting to the project's needs, such as testing and DevOps. This optimal team size of 5-6 members allowed us to adopt an agile approach, generating the necessary momentum.

The power of momentum: Momentum is a magical force that propels teams forward. While initially, it requires additional effort to overcome inertia, the benefits far outweigh the costs. By reaching the point of momentum, teams can achieve remarkable progress and surpass anticipated milestones. Without the right team size, it becomes challenging to reach this point, potentially leading to a dead end on the runway.

Conclusion: In the journey of building an #MVP for a #startup, the concept of a short runway and the philosophy of creating urgency play pivotal roles. Overcoming inertia and generating momentum within the team is crucial for success. By expanding the team size to an optimal range and instilling a culture of urgency, startups can navigate the challenges, meet their goals, and deliver a successful #MVP.

Share your experience: We would love to hear about your experiences in building tech for MVPs or overcoming challenges in startups. Please feel free to comment and share your insights, as we continue to learn from each other's experiences in the exciting world of startups.