Ask HN: Release app as is even if only for Android?
In the near future, 3 months to 1 year, I plan for the following technical developments:
-Swap Parse for a custom backend for cheaper operation (let me know if you have good replacements)
-Develop app for iOS environent (no experience here whatsoever, being in Windowsland)
-Develop webapp for "the web"
-Hit MechanicalTurk (and related services) for content.
Given my current progress, and my target goal of hitting all significant mobile and web environments, what do I do from here?? As a complete noob to startups, I am in a bit of an analysis paralysis. I want to release an MVP, but also don't want to reveal it too soon. I have validated the app concepts to family, friends, and coworkers to very good reception, so I'm not entirely worried it will be a complete flop, but I'm not going to make any claims that it will be a huge hit either. But if the app is a hit ( so I'm biased ), then I feel like releasing it now would be a strategic... something. I see 2 options and their related outcomes:
1. Release for android first.
-Get initial customer feedback for the entire concept.
-If concept fails, then I won't waste time on the idea.
-Earn some money while continue working on the other targets
-Risk of concept taking off, clones overtake me by being better/faster, especially with regards to iOS space, where there is the most money to be made according to popular belief.
2. Continue developing until I hit all target items, then release
-Have app presence on all significant mobile platforms
-If app becomes popular, potential users will not be prevented by lack of choice.
What advice would you have for a poor bootstrapper. Any advice is welcome, I would appreciate any guidance on this.
2 comments
[ 3.4 ms ] story [ 19.1 ms ] threadSo I would advocate doing number one. Launch, get feedback, get better, find your market and get paid while you work on the iOS version.