Ask HN: Whats the next step after prototype?
A year later, I'm sitting on a nearly-functional prototype of a next-gen message board, utilizing all the fancy bells and whistles of web 2.0.
It still has a long way to go, but concerning demonstration purposes, it works.
As I stated, I knew nothing about programming till a year ago, and at this stage, I must admit that I know nothing about start-ups.
And that's how I found this site.
As such, I would really appreciate some answers from experienced professionals who know of the many pitfalls that surround start-ups, and who could offer some advice on things new entrepreneurs might not think about.
I've googled for various tips, and while most are good reads, they are a little too broad to really help me understand what I am up for.
Without further adieu:
1. Whats the best way to find partners, or help.
I have been developing my web app in my spare time by myself. I have some programmer friends whom I have shared the idea with, but their conviction is lacking and they can never really commit to a project, especially one that isn't their own idea.
I have read in many places that meetups are a great way to find partners. However, this brings me to a different question...
2. How should one initiate a partnership proposal?
How do you sell your idea? Are NDA's commonplace? Where can you find a good write-up for a start-up NDA? Should you incorporate? What if this person turns out to be bad news.
#2 ended up being a lot of questions, so I'll leave it at that.
All in all, the summary of this thread is essentially asking how one moves from 'prototyping' to 'perfecting' in a timely manner. Whats the best way to 'sell' your idea while taking as little risk as possible.
Thanks to all for the read.