devtools.fm: Developer Tools, Open Source, Software Development Erez Zukerman - ZSA, ErgoDox, and the Future of Keyboards
Oct 21, 2024
Erez Zukerman, the founder and CEO of ZSA, takes us on an intriguing journey from web development to creating innovative keyboards. He shares the inspiring story behind the ErgoDox, originally an open-source project, and its evolution into a commercial success. The challenges of hardware manufacturing and managing crowdfunding campaigns reveal the importance of partnerships and clear communication. Plus, Erez introduces the versatile Voyager keyboard and discusses the future of keyboard design in a world increasingly influenced by AI and speech recognition.
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Finding the Right Partner
- Erez Zukerman considers himself lucky for finding the right business partner.
- His partner, Dima, is the managing director of Thibaut, a Taiwanese manufacturer.
Partnership vs. OEM
- Partnering with a manufacturer directly, rather than using an OEM, offers several advantages.
- This includes shared ownership, deep technical expertise, and streamlined processes like certification.
Crowdfunding Challenges
- ZSA's crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo faced challenges, including being flagged as a scam.
- Despite this, and competition from the Ergodox Infinity, they achieved their funding goal.