Tag
Startup
A startup is an emerging company that seeks rapid growth by leveraging innovative business models and technologies. Typically, startups target either unestablished markets or existing markets with fresh approaches. By doing so, they aim to achieve swift expansion within a highly competitive business environment. Startups are defined by their operation with limited resources, high-risk business models, and inherent uncertainty. Especially in their early stages, products or services may not yet be available in the market, and their success is not guaranteed. Thus, startups must embrace risk-taking, with innovation and flexibility being pivotal to their development. Moreover, many startups pursue funding from venture capitalists to accelerate their business growth. This financial backing enables startups to enhance their competitiveness in the market and expedite their growth trajectory. However, reliance on external funding can also introduce risks to management independence. The success of a startup largely hinges on the acceptance of its products or services in the market. Therefore, conducting market research, accurately understanding customer needs, and crafting strategies accordingly are essential. For instance, the "Lean Startup" methodology, which emphasizes swiftly integrating customer feedback to refine products and services, has gained traction in recent years. This approach aims to minimize waste and maximize effectiveness at minimal cost. Additionally, it is crucial to recognize the significance of technological innovation for startups. Many startups leverage cutting-edge technologies to explore new markets and create competitive advantages. For example, new services and products utilizing AI and blockchain technology are continuously emerging within the startup landscape. Conversely, the failure rate of startups is notably high, and not all companies will succeed. Contributing factors include market timing, insufficient funding, and the challenge of attracting suitable talent. Nevertheless, learning from failures and using those insights as stepping stones can pave the way for future success. Currently, the startup ecosystem is experiencing rapid growth, with both government and large corporations actively supporting this expansion. Support organizations such as incubators and accelerators play a significant role in nurturing the growth of startups. This collaborative environment is expected to help startups leverage resources and networks for accelerated development. Startups represent more than just a business model; they embody innovation and challenge. Looking ahead, the spotlight will continue to shine on startups as they create new value while adapting to technological advancements and market fluctuations.
Product
Career Paths to Becoming a Product Manager
While knowledge about product management is growing, there's no well-organized guide on how to become a product manager. At the same time, the gateway to becoming a product manager with no experience is still quite limited. In light of this situation, this article challenges you to categorize the career path to product manager based on the backgrounds of the product managers I have worked with and the backgrounds of the product managers who became product managers.
Spotlight
Accelerating Digital Transformation in Large Enterprises through a Long-Term Perspective: Insights from JAFCO Group's Shozo Isaka
In this installment of our series on the transformation of major corporations from a VC's perspective, we explore what is essential for corporate transformation, including digital transformation (DX). In this fourth installment, we interview Mr. Shozo Isaka, a Partner at JAFCO Group. Mr. Isaka emphasizes the importance of a long-term perspective. We will discuss key points for advancing DX in large companies and considerations for startups collaborating with them, based on Mr. Isaka's insights.
Spotlight
Beyond Short-Term Revenue: How SaaS Drives Lifetime Value and Transformation in Large Enterprises | Hiro Maeda, ALL STAR SAAS FUND
This series explores what is necessary for the transformation of major companies, including digital transformation (DX), from the perspective of a venture capital (VC) partner. In this third installment, we interview Hiro Maeda, Managing Partner of ALL STAR SAAS FUND, a VC firm specializing in SaaS. According to Maeda, SaaS acts as a catalyst for change. We delve into the role SaaS plays in the transformation of large enterprises and discuss key considerations when collaborating with startups, examining Maeda's theories on corporate transformation.
Spotlight
Transformation Insights from Southeast Asia’s "Digital Pioneer": A Call for Leadership Commitment | Soichi Tajima, Genesia Ventures
As digital technology breaks down industry barriers, major companies that have long driven the Japanese economy must transform to create new business opportunities and economic value.
Spotlight
What Large Enterprises Need for Transformation: "Leadership Capital" | Tomoko Namba of Delight Ventures
As digital technology continues to lower the barriers between industries, the businesses and organizations of the major companies that have driven the Japanese economy must transform to create new business opportunities and economic value.
Product
Key Features of SaaS and a Step-by-Step Guide to Launching
With the spread of the new coronavirus, the need for remote work, including from home, has rapidly increased, making SaaS a widely recognized term in Japan.
Research
Innovation and New Ventures: What ambie Earphones Teach Us About Craftsmanship
As remote work and online lessons have become more common due to COVID-19, the demand for audio devices such as earphones has expanded alongside the increased use of online conferencing platforms like Zoom.