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Aak HN: Choosing clone of existing product as a startup

4 points by maheshsingh ↗ HN
How would be the option to clone any successful product as a start-up, as a cheaper and open-source option? When I asked same question with many friends they are saying every body is doing that including Google. For every product there are many segment, you need to tap that segment. Is that right?

9 comments

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pclark
if you clone an application you won't be in tap with why the developers did what they did. It's all about the endgame for companies.

If you clone an application, you have no idea what their end goal is, so how can you ever compete/innovate?

maheshsingh
When i say clone the application mean, with some innovation in same product and attract some initial customers then make own path.
pclark
dont use the word 'trap' when talking about customers. Scary! ;)

Why do you think they'd use your software? Whats your benefit? Free? Does that mean no support? Self-hosted?

maheshsingh
yaa you are right 'trap' is a Scary word, i'll use convince ;)

Why do you think they'd use your software? -Because i think they are charging more. -Open Source and free model added advantage apart from other added features, but at start with basic version. Whats your benefit? -Pro version Free? Does that mean no support? -There will be support but only email and limited number. Self-hosted? -No

knightinblue
Here's an even better word - 'attract'

A word of advice regarding the copy on your website, make sure you hire someone who can write well. Please don't take this is a slight, this is serious advice. First impressions can make or break your customers' experience and poorly worded writing can severely damage the experience.

ScottWhigham
I agree. I had trouble following OP's intent due to language. I think that the reason more people haven't chimed in is that the initial question is worded so confusingly. And also, I don't mean this as a slight; just an observation. I doubt that anyone would mind if you re-phrased and re-posted with more substance.
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knightinblue
You want to trap customers?

What is your end goal here? To copy a successful product and make a profit by altering it slightly?

maheshsingh
not slightly, but creating lower price model and grow eventually.