Princeton University
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Computer Science 448
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For this writeup you will assume you are the CTO of a startup out of the portfolio of Union Square Ventures. You can get a list of their investments here. You will work in groups, but will submit only one writeup, instead of individual writeups (ask one group member to submit and mention the name of the other member). The word limit for this writeup is 600 words. Working with your group partner, you will identify a company that you believe is in a good space as a startup, but should be doing something different from what it's currently doing. You will then write a memo to the Board of Directors, as the CTO, explaining:Obviously, you don't have enough information about USV's portfolio startups to really discuss engineering challenges in detail. We recommend you to get as much information about their technology as possible and then base your discussion on whatever information is available e.g., you can just try using the service/company as a user and get a feel of their technology or try reading their blogs or search the web for information. Feel free to ask questions about this.
- What is the current core business/value-addition of the company? (brief)
- Why the company needs to pivot in a new (yet related) direction? (can talk about technology trends, lessons learned, new ideas, etc.)
- What are the engineering challenges involved to make this pivot? (this part has more importance)
This writeup is due right before the class in which Fred Wilson (USV) is giving a guest lecture. It will hopefully help you to ask better questions during his lecture. Also, depending on the quality of your submissions we may send 0 or more writeups to Fred. We will obviously ask for your permission, if your writeup is selected.
Good luck!