I’m a seasoned technical advisor with 25 years of experience in building high-scale high-performance software at companies like Electronic Arts, Glu Mobile and Kiva.
I work closely with startups from pre-seed to series-B to advise on technical design and architecture, technical scaling plans, and technical organization design.
Scale
I know scale. I have built applications used by hundreds of millions of users. I advise on clean decoupled architectures that can respond to increased scale and organizational pivots.
People
I know people. I assemble high-performing engineering teams. I have conducted over 500 technical interviews, and hired over 100 engineers. I advise on how to structure your hiring process and develop your engineering culture to attract, hire and retain the highest quality talent.
Process
I know process. I have adapted and implemented agile practices on a dozen engineering teams that have unified and enabled them to deliver high-quality on-time results. I advise on the right process for your team, and how to evolve it as your organization grows.
Product
I know product. I have worked across web, mobile and desktop applications in gaming, ecommerce, fintech, SaaS, fashiontech and non-profits. I advice on product development methodologies, including Design Thinking and Lean, to help you bring your product to market, while balancing your resources and runway.
Do I need a Technical Advisor?
Startups often face unique challenges, from limited resources to intense competition. Having a seasoned technical advisor for startups is a game-changer, providing the expertise needed to navigate these hurdles successfully. A technical advisor offers strategic guidance, helping startups leverage technology effectively, streamline operations, and build scalable products. This role is crucial in transforming innovative ideas into market-ready solutions.
The Role of a Technical Advisor in Startups
A technical advisor for startups brings a wealth of experience to the table, often from years of working in the tech industry. Their role extends beyond offering advice; they actively participate in decision-making processes that affect the startup’s technological direction. They help in identifying the best tech stack, ensuring that the chosen technology aligns with the startup’s goals, and is scalable for future growth.
One of the primary responsibilities of a technical advisor is to mitigate risks associated with technology adoption. Startups can be prone to technical debt, where early-stage decisions create long-term challenges. A technical advisor helps avoid such pitfalls by recommending sustainable and cost-effective technology solutions. Their insights are particularly valuable during product development stages, where the right technical decisions can significantly impact the product’s success.
Why Startups Need a Technical Advisor
Hiring a technical advisor for startups can provide a competitive edge. Startups often have innovative ideas but may lack the technical expertise to execute them effectively. A technical advisor bridges this gap, ensuring that the startup’s vision is translated into a viable product or service.
Moreover, a technical advisor can play a pivotal role in scaling the business. As the startup grows, so do its technical needs. The advisor ensures that the technology infrastructure is robust enough to handle growth, including handling increased user loads, expanding into new markets, or integrating advanced technologies like artificial intelligence or blockchain.
Key Benefits of Having a Technical Advisor
Strategic Guidance: A technical advisor provides startups with strategic guidance, helping them align their technology choices with their business objectives. This ensures that resources are used efficiently and that the startup is positioned for long-term success.
Risk Management: Startups are often in uncharted territory, making them vulnerable to various risks. A technical advisor helps identify potential risks early on and develops strategies to mitigate them. This proactive approach can save startups from costly mistakes down the line.
Access to a Network: An experienced technical advisor often brings a valuable network of industry contacts. These connections can open doors for partnerships, investment opportunities, and access to cutting-edge technologies.
Improved Decision-Making: With their extensive experience, technical advisors can provide insights that lead to better decision-making. Whether it’s choosing the right technology, hiring technical talent, or making product development decisions, their input can be invaluable.
Choosing the Right Technical Advisor for Your Startup
When selecting a technical advisor for startups, it’s essential to find someone whose experience aligns with your industry and the specific challenges you face. Look for advisors with a proven track record of working with startups and who can demonstrate a deep understanding of your business model and technological needs.
It’s also important to establish clear expectations and communicate openly with your advisor. A successful partnership relies on mutual respect and a shared vision for the startup’s success.
Having a technical advisor for startups is not just an advantage, it’s a necessity. Their expertise can help you avoid common pitfalls, leverage the latest technologies, and scale your business efficiently. As you embark on your startup journey, investing in a technical advisor could be one of the most strategic decisions you make.