Startups: Lessons I Learned

Douglas Pujol - Jul 3 - - Dev Community

Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to work in several startups across different sectors. In this brief article, I share some key points I learned from these experiences.

Start Simple and Build Only What You Need

The best way to start a new project is to begin simply and avoid unnecessary complexities. Projects naturally become more complex over time, so focus on basic functionalities and develop the code based on the real needs of your product. Avoid creating complex solutions prematurely, as this wastes time and resources. A good architecture should be flexible, cost-effective, and capable of adapting to changes.

Don't Fall Victim to Hype

One of the biggest challenges for companies today is the hasty adoption of modern technologies, whether it's a new framework, a new styling library, or an architecture popularized by an influencer. While exploring new technologies is exciting, do so cautiously. New technologies often come with bugs and uncovered use cases because they need time to mature. Be critical and aware of the trade-offs of each choice.

Small, Talented Teams Outperform Large Mediocre Teams

If you're a manager, value and retain your talents. Maintaining a small, highly skilled team is more efficient than having large, average teams. Many companies believe that more programmers lead to better software quality, which is a misconception. The synergy and efficiency of a small, competent team are unmatched and extremely valuable for project success.

Wheat and the Chaff

Know how to identify who is truly committed to helping and building something extraordinary with you, as opposed to those who are just comfortable. Value dedicated professionals who are willing to grow alongside the project.

Take Care of Yourself and Your Family

Programming is a passion that has transformed my life and the lives of many others. However, maintaining a balance between professional and personal life is essential for success. Include daily physical activities, such as going to the gym or practicing jiu-jitsu, and dedicate quality time to your family. A strong mind and a healthy body are crucial for achieving any goal.

Culture Is Crucial

The importance of organizational culture became clear to me after several years in the workforce. Culture shapes the future of the company. Invest in creating a positive work environment where values and goals are shared among all team members.

Recognition Matters

The most valuable recognition comes in monetary forms, development opportunities, and meaningful friendships. The best companies I've been a part of were those where I built lasting friendships. These are the standards I prioritize in every project I undertake.

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