Saturday, February 15, 2014

Startup Management 101: World's Longest Syllabus

I've compiled lists of blog posts, articles, and books that offer insights and practical advice about various startup functions, including product design, product management, business development, marketing, and sales. In addition, I've aggregated readings on lean startup logic and methods and key factors for success with the SaaS business model.

The catalyst for creating these lists was an MBA elective course, Launching Tech Ventures, which Flybridge Capital GP/HBS Senior Lecturer Jeff Bussgang and I co-teach. The course focuses on functional management challenges in early- and later-stage tech startups. We assign lots of readings by entrepreneurs and investors. Instead of a final exam, students complete a "learning-by-doing" project which applies one of the tools/techniques used by startup managers, for example, customer discovery interviews, A/B tests, or usability tests. The lists I've compiled contain terrific guidance for our students. Thanks to all who've contributed their insights!