a16z Podcast

a16z Podcast: The Rise of Full Stack Startups

12 snips
Mar 27, 2014
Discover the rise of full-stack startups that create complete products, bypassing traditional companies. Explore how firms like Apple and Airbnb blend technology with operations for superior customer experiences. Dive into the evolving role of APIs, transforming software development by enhancing integration. Learn about the challenges and strategies for launching in underserved markets, as well as the impact on heavily regulated industries like healthcare and finance. This shift empowers new ventures to innovate and scale at unprecedented levels.
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ANECDOTE

Full Stack Startup Examples

  • Uber transformed from licensing software to taxi companies to paying drivers and managing the whole service themselves.
  • Netflix integrated funding, discovery, and streaming to deliver a full stack entertainment experience.
ADVICE

Start Full Stack With MVP

  • Start with a minimum viable product targeting critical layers first when building a full stack startup.
  • Use stopgaps and commercial off-the-shelf components temporarily to reach full integration.
INSIGHT

Apple's API-based Ownership

  • Apple's decision to own or outsource parts of its product chain depends on the maturity of those layers as APIs.
  • They own core components like processors but outsource manufacturing where possible.
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