What Startups Do and Do Not Need

What does it take to start a business? There are some things that one business would consider important that another business would not. However, there are also some fundamentals with starting a business. Chris Dixon, a well-known angel investor and entrepreneur, has had his share of experience with startups and even compiled a list of things startups do and do not need.

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As detailed in the above video, SmallBusinessNewz went through and gathered several of, what we consider to be, the most important factors affecting startups. The first fundamental factor that a startup does need is two forms of Internet access. Since nearly all businesses rely heavily on the Web, there should always be a backup in case one shuts down.

Secondly on the list of do’s, a startup needs to have lots of in-person communication. In spite of how great the Web is for so many tasks, there is absolutely no substitute for offline communication. Startups especially need communication in order to produce new ideas, advance strategies, and provide encouragement.

It is also important that startups have a lighter side and understand how some smaller things could influence the business. Another one of Dixon’s do’s is a sunny office with windows that open. Sunlight and fresh air truly have a significant impact on a business since they produce energy and positivity. On the other hand, a dark, gloomy office space has a tendency to create negativity and discouragement. A startup needs to have the energy and ambition that sunlight sends out.

Also on the lighter side, every startup needs a good coffee maker. As entrepreneurs, if you expect your employees to work for endless hours at a time, you had better give them something to keep them going.

On the other side of the coin, there are some things that a startup really does not need. Most of these are things that could come after the business is more established but not during the beginning phases. First on the list of don’ts is the need to hire a public relations firm. Most entrepreneurs can do their own PR by utilizing social media and by being open with journalists and bloggers. It could even work in their favor, since they are more passionate about their offerings than a spokesperson would be.

Also, on the list of don’ts are private offices. Collaboration is critical in the early stages and private offices would reduce it. A space with private offices could also result in a lack of communication, which, as we stated earlier, is very important.

On the humorous side of the list of don’ts, startups do not need fancy chairs. Although it is important to be comfortable, fancy chairs are a not essential in the startup phase.

Another item that is rather humorous that isn’t needed is expensive art on the walls. Some might argue that artwork and decor are needed to make a good impression on customers, but in the beginning, it is more important to impress them with your products or services instead.

It is critical to a business to make the right choices in the startup phase because they will, ultimately, determine the future of the business.

What would you add as an essential to this list?