I wonder if the founders of some of these niche social networks are even involved with the hobbies they build around. Are the founders of BikeSpace really bicyclers? How do they know what bicyclists really desire?
That's a problem that I see common with a lot of startups these days - they are solving (or trying to solve) problems that they have never personally experienced.
Pete Cashmore
· 2 years ago
Robert,
Yes, they are.
Pete Cashmore
· 2 years ago
Cyclists, I mean.
Robert Dewey
· 2 years ago
Excellent... Then I give them a higher probability of success - I'll be watching :)
Babette
· 2 years ago
Hi Robert,
Pete is right. As a founder of a niche social network (http://www.bakespace.com) I feel compelled to reply your comment.
In order for anyone to have the drive or passion to go through designing, building, promoting, all the ups and downs of server crashes once you hit a stride of success, (not to mention blog reviews - Pete) you have to have a passion for the niche. In the beginning it's you and only you running the site, answering emails and dealing with customer support. If you don't believe in the product your members will know and your membership will show it.
On our site, which is a site for people passionate about food, cooking and baking, we have a recipe exchange. So, when members become my friend, they can taste for themselves if I'm really a foodie. Having a niche site allows founders to connect with others who are passionate about the same things. If you don't believe me, try my cupcakes. I've been told they are some of the best around. http://bakespace.com/?babs
Murphy
· 1 year ago
lol way to sell yourself for a quick minute Babette but good comment before hand
All Comments
That's a problem that I see common with a lot of startups these days - they are solving (or trying to solve) problems that they have never personally experienced.
Yes, they are.
Pete is right. As a founder of a niche social network (http://www.bakespace.com) I feel compelled to reply your comment.
In order for anyone to have the drive or passion to go through designing, building, promoting, all the ups and downs of server crashes once you hit a stride of success, (not to mention blog reviews - Pete) you have to have a passion for the niche. In the beginning it's you and only you running the site, answering emails and dealing with customer support. If you don't believe in the product your members will know and your membership will show it.
On our site, which is a site for people passionate about food, cooking and baking, we have a recipe exchange. So, when members become my friend, they can taste for themselves if I'm really a foodie. Having a niche site allows founders to connect with others who are passionate about the same things. If you don't believe me, try my cupcakes. I've been told they are some of the best around. http://bakespace.com/?babs