This Week in Startups E1147: “Godfather of SaaS” Jason Lemkin on 2020’s cloud software boom, public CEO mindsets, how Zoom conquered the competition & more | Rising Stars of SaaS 8
Dec 2, 2020
Jason Lemkin, known as the "Godfather of SaaS," is a decorated SaaS investor and founder of SaaStr. He discusses the transformational impact of COVID-19 on the SaaS industry, highlighting the success of Zoom amidst challenges faced by companies like Slack. Lemkin navigates the intricacies of remote work, the surge in diversity among startup founders, and the evolving dynamics of startup funding. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability and innovation in a shifting economic landscape, shedding light on the future of cloud-based solutions.
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SaaStr Annual Cancellation
- SaaStr Annual, Jason Lemkin's large SaaS event, was canceled due to COVID-19.
- This resulted in a $10 million loss, but also forced adaptation and innovation.
Force Majeure Clauses
- Force majeure clauses exist in contracts but don't always protect the smaller party.
- The clause dictates which party assumes risk in unforeseen events, often benefiting the vendor.
Digital Events
- While some SaaS companies found success with online conferences during COVID-19, many are ineffective.
- Digital events should focus on core value propositions, like expert discussions, rather than replicating in-person experiences.