unicorn ranch keywon chung http://www.flickr.com/photos/robboudon/6035811624
unicorn ranchkeywon chung
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon6035811624
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon6035811624
weird title Bad news
How ldquounicornsrdquo amp t-shaped people rule this age of software innovation
how wersquore disappointed with the korean talent pool
outline
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon6035811624
WHAT IS A UNICORN
why is everyone looking for unicorns
what is a unicorn ranch
How do we build a ranch
can we build it in korea
what do you think
what is a unicornHow do you evaluate talent
What makes your talent more valuable than others
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Why is it so difficult to explain to my parents what I do
I asked
I was studying Design amp Human-Computer Interaction at Carnegie Mellon in 2001
You need a history lesson
Richard Buchanan said
He was the dean of School of Design at Carnegie Mellon and a prominent academic
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is verticalTrade or domain
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is horizontalAcross multiple domains
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Middle Age VerticalsEveryone was in their narrow trench
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Renaissance HorizontalThink Da Vinci a Renaissance Man
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Post-Renaissance Verticals againThink Industrial Age 20th Century
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon6035811624
weird title Bad news
How ldquounicornsrdquo amp t-shaped people rule this age of software innovation
how wersquore disappointed with the korean talent pool
outline
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon6035811624
WHAT IS A UNICORN
why is everyone looking for unicorns
what is a unicorn ranch
How do we build a ranch
can we build it in korea
what do you think
what is a unicornHow do you evaluate talent
What makes your talent more valuable than others
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Why is it so difficult to explain to my parents what I do
I asked
I was studying Design amp Human-Computer Interaction at Carnegie Mellon in 2001
You need a history lesson
Richard Buchanan said
He was the dean of School of Design at Carnegie Mellon and a prominent academic
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is verticalTrade or domain
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is horizontalAcross multiple domains
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Middle Age VerticalsEveryone was in their narrow trench
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Renaissance HorizontalThink Da Vinci a Renaissance Man
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Post-Renaissance Verticals againThink Industrial Age 20th Century
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
outline
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon6035811624
WHAT IS A UNICORN
why is everyone looking for unicorns
what is a unicorn ranch
How do we build a ranch
can we build it in korea
what do you think
what is a unicornHow do you evaluate talent
What makes your talent more valuable than others
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Why is it so difficult to explain to my parents what I do
I asked
I was studying Design amp Human-Computer Interaction at Carnegie Mellon in 2001
You need a history lesson
Richard Buchanan said
He was the dean of School of Design at Carnegie Mellon and a prominent academic
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is verticalTrade or domain
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is horizontalAcross multiple domains
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Middle Age VerticalsEveryone was in their narrow trench
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Renaissance HorizontalThink Da Vinci a Renaissance Man
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Post-Renaissance Verticals againThink Industrial Age 20th Century
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what is a unicornHow do you evaluate talent
What makes your talent more valuable than others
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Why is it so difficult to explain to my parents what I do
I asked
I was studying Design amp Human-Computer Interaction at Carnegie Mellon in 2001
You need a history lesson
Richard Buchanan said
He was the dean of School of Design at Carnegie Mellon and a prominent academic
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is verticalTrade or domain
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is horizontalAcross multiple domains
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Middle Age VerticalsEveryone was in their narrow trench
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Renaissance HorizontalThink Da Vinci a Renaissance Man
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Post-Renaissance Verticals againThink Industrial Age 20th Century
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Why is it so difficult to explain to my parents what I do
I asked
I was studying Design amp Human-Computer Interaction at Carnegie Mellon in 2001
You need a history lesson
Richard Buchanan said
He was the dean of School of Design at Carnegie Mellon and a prominent academic
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is verticalTrade or domain
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is horizontalAcross multiple domains
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Middle Age VerticalsEveryone was in their narrow trench
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Renaissance HorizontalThink Da Vinci a Renaissance Man
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Post-Renaissance Verticals againThink Industrial Age 20th Century
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is verticalTrade or domain
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is horizontalAcross multiple domains
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Middle Age VerticalsEveryone was in their narrow trench
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Renaissance HorizontalThink Da Vinci a Renaissance Man
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Post-Renaissance Verticals againThink Industrial Age 20th Century
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is verticalTrade or domain
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is horizontalAcross multiple domains
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Middle Age VerticalsEveryone was in their narrow trench
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Renaissance HorizontalThink Da Vinci a Renaissance Man
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Post-Renaissance Verticals againThink Industrial Age 20th Century
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
This is horizontalAcross multiple domains
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Middle Age VerticalsEveryone was in their narrow trench
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Renaissance HorizontalThink Da Vinci a Renaissance Man
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Post-Renaissance Verticals againThink Industrial Age 20th Century
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Middle Age VerticalsEveryone was in their narrow trench
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Renaissance HorizontalThink Da Vinci a Renaissance Man
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Post-Renaissance Verticals againThink Industrial Age 20th Century
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Renaissance HorizontalThink Da Vinci a Renaissance Man
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Post-Renaissance Verticals againThink Industrial Age 20th Century
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Post-Renaissance Verticals againThink Industrial Age 20th Century
law medical banking art cooking
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Memorize recipesPractice the dishes
Shop for ingredients
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Recipe bookKnivesOven
lawyer doctor banker painter chef
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
Design started as a verticalIndustrial design car design logo design
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
New types of design is emergingProblem solvers strategists experience
These designers work across verticalsMedical device credit card charity branding
Design is both horizontal and verticalMaking it very confusing to others
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
law medical banking art Design
Understand lawAdvise people
Represent people
Memorize anatomyDiagnos illnessPerform surgery
Learn bank productsMake calculationsEnroll customers
Learn to drawMaster your mediumSell your paintings
Draw logosMake clay modelsProof CMYK print
License examLaw books
Case studies
Anatomy bookScalpel
Pills and herbs
CalculatorSpreadsheet
Customer Rolodex
CanvasOil paint
Sketchbook
Offset printerPhotoshop
Foam models
lawyer doctor banker painter Designer
what is a unicornhistorical perspective
But these horizontal types are not unicorns
These are just generalists
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what is a unicorndefinition
Someone who can perform multiple specialty functions and
solve a broad set of problems your team faces
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what is a unicornexample
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
This job posting describesSomeone both broad and deep
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicorna unicorn designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
ldquoUnicornrdquo DesignerThey exist But unlikely you can find or hire them
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
research interaction writing visual Ui dev
user researcher
usability expert
product analyst
what is a unicornldquoT-Shapedrdquo Designer
product designer
interaction designer
ui designer
ux designer
copywriter
editor
content manager
brand strategist
visual ui designer
communica-tion designer
gui designer
identity designer
junior developer
frontend dev
ui prototyper
ios developer
T-Shaped DesignerYou can find them only in certain places
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what is a unicornwhat is ldquot-shapedrdquo
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what is a unicornHorizontal stroke = defining factor
Disposition for collaborationAcross different disciplines Curiosity enthusiasm empathy
Depth of skillContribute to creative processCompetitive amp competent
Tim Brown CEO of IDEO
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what is a unicornunicorn vs t-shaped
The pyramid is skewedMuch fewer unicorns than Ts exist
The Rest
Most are neither unicorns nor TsA lot more mediocre people
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
Value increases exponentiallyBoth provide much better value than the rest
The Rest
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what is a unicornunicorn + t-shaped
In this presentation we will use the term ldquounicornrdquo for
Existing unicorns+
T-shaped people striving to evolve into a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
why is everyone looking for unicornsa recent phenomenon
Everyonersquos looking for a unicorn
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSeed-stage startup looking for rockstar junior designer to sketch wireframes and design beautiful mockups Yoursquoll be responsible for crafting our logo and brand and writing UI copy Must know how to run usability studies prototype and write production-ready HTML and CSSrdquo
Braden Kowitz
Designer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
SiliconFloristcom
Developer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
1) Exceptional at deep analysis of data and running tests
2) Gifted at creating content and
3) Brilliant at branding
Oh and it would be awesome if they were also world-class project managers
Dharmesh Shah
Marketer
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
why is everyone looking for unicornswhorsquos looking
ldquoSomething has gone terribly out of whack in looking for realistic talentrdquo Ms Weinstein said Many companies are looking for ldquoa five-headed monsterrdquo focusing on creative and highly technical skills (number crunching data visualization quantitative analysis) and a strong business acumen
New York Times
Advertisingand the list goes on
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
why is everyone looking for unicornswhatrsquos causing this rush
WhySudden high demand for unicorns
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
python ruby
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
why is everyone looking for unicornssoftware development has changed
python ruby
Lean Startup
Agile dev
design first
ab testing
y-combinator
mobile first
analyticssoftware as a
service
angelist
open source
What kind of people thrive in (and define) this new era
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
why is everyone looking for unicornsstandout companies
Silicon Prarie News
Creators of Ruby on Rails Design company -gt Web appsBasecamp Backpack Campfire
Creators of Paper iPad App 15M downloads in 2 weeksApple Design Award winner
FiftyThree
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
why is everyone looking for unicornsbecause you need them
What do you think is required to build and join these standout companies
Technical knowledge Not reallyGood schools Screw that
8 tenets of standout tech companies
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
8 tenets of standout tech companies18
Love your problemAre you solving a problem that you truly care about
Are you scratching your own itchhttpwwwflickrcomphotos9516941N082286083797
Scratch your own itchBe your own customer
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
8 tenets of standout tech companies28
Love your customersThey are your allies and partners with the same itch you have
You exist to make their lives simpler and betterhttpwwwflickrcomphotoseurleif66875875
Empathy for customersThink like your customers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
8 tenets of standout tech companies38
Make opinionated productTake sides Pick an enemy Have a vision and attitude
httpwwwflickrcomphotosviagallery2037438708 httpwwwflickrcomphotosoxtopus5102485260
Anti-Tablet PC = iPadldquoFinger is the ultimate input devicerdquo
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
8 tenets of standout tech companies48
cross-functionCreate opportunities to expand yourself
Do only what you already know -gt Create only what already existshttpwwwflickrcomphotosaltuwa4398216485
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
8 tenets of standout tech companies58
learn quicklyLearn problem solving not the answers
Ask questionshttpwwwflickrcomphotosajkjuu3671301881 httpwwwflickrcomphotosrsms4794163953
Screw textbookJust start hacking and designing
httpwwwflickrcomphotoster-burg5520205712
Or better yetStart a project with a peer or mentor
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
8 tenets of standout tech companies68
momentum-sensitiveWin small victories consistently
Push your product forward every day every weekhttpwwwflickrcomphotosorcmid3879260297
Decisions are temporaryldquoDonerdquo is the magic word
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
8 tenets of standout tech companies78
Quick decisionsBring in your own point of view
Simplify the product for your customershttpwwwflickrcomphotoslyndonhill6911975683
Stay away from PreferencesBe decisive for users and move it forward
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
8 tenets of standout tech companies88
good communicatorGood speakers and writers make good designers and coders
httpblogshbrorgcs201207i_wont_hire_people_who_use_poohtml
Effective concise thinkingValuable in every aspect
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
World view value system passion for improvement
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
love your problem
love your customer
make opinionated
productcross-
function
learn quickly
momentum-sensitive
quick decisions
good communi-
cator
This is about attitudeNot as much about resume or skills
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
itrsquos more about attitude than skillsthis is a cultural shift
ideostripe
airbnbgoogle
dropbox
Same situation at other idolized companies
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
all these companies are lookingstill most people are ldquoI-shapedrdquo
High demand low supply
httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
do i need unicornsWhy do they offer higher value
Value increases exponentiallyUnicorns and Ts provide much better value
The Rest
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
yes you need unicornsthe difference is simply too big
Unicorns are no accidentThey are self-aware and culture-aware
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
yes you need unicornsadvantages of unicorns
They get the culture we compete inNo need to explain all this
Passion for improvement and innovation included
Improving oneself beyond whatrsquos offered by school or work system included
Quick learning included
Problem solving included
Ability to deal with ambiguity included
Empathy and cross-functional growth included
Point of view and decision making ability included
Good communication included
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
yes you need unicornsis it greedy no
You donrsquot need unicorns for new hires but
you need T-shaped people to compete in this age
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
yes you need unicornsit is necessary
And one more thing
Founders need to become unicorns if they arenrsquot already
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
unicorn ranchbuilding a collective
httpwwwflickrcomphotosrobboudon
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
unicorn ranchwe are unicorns
InfographicsHTMLCSS
Visual UI DesignInteraction Design
Copywriting
XCode Storyboarding
Market Sizing
HRRecruitingMotion Graphics
User Interviews
Trend Research
Competitive Analysis
Branding and IdentityPitch and Presentations
Interactive Media Art
Physical Prototyping
Sketch storyboard wireframe
Look amp Feel Moneyshot
Guidelines amp Documentations
PhotographyVideography Event Organization
PythonDjango
Academic Paper SEO AnalyticsFinancial Modeling
Data Mining
Patent FilingPitch and Presentations
SEM Campaigns
Machine Learning
Handwriting Recognition
Natural Language Processing
Production Backend
Objective C Prototyping
Production JS and FrontendFundraising
Source ControlDeployment
Statistical AnalysisAcquisition
Press and PR
VC Relationship
Recommendation Engine
Academic Paper
Print Design
UI Design Review
Code Review
Facilitation
Professional Brainstorm
Market Sizing
Software Testing
Mathematical Algorithms
Performance Optimization
HTMLCSS
UI Designer and Tester
VisualGraphic Designer
Product Planner amp Manager Customer
Researcher
Computer Scientist
SoftwareDeveloper
Quantitative MarketingVenture
Founder
Keywon Michael
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
unicorn ranchthree ranches we lived in
httpwwwflickrcomphotosjurvetson2475731 httpwwwflickrcomphotoslaughingsquid413378149httpwwwflickrcomphotosedublogger838786841
IDEOpalo alto CA
MIT MEdia labboston ma
microsoft researchredmond wa
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
unicorn ranchpossible for startups Yes
37 signals32 people
fiftythree10 people
stripe31 people
How do we bring this level of excellence to startups
Silicon Prarie News FiftyThree Stripe
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
unicorn ranchlab80 experiment
Our experiment in unicorn ranching
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
unicorn ranch at lab80what we are
Personal Investing in the USEarly startup 4 peopleSeoul+SFTargeting US consumers
Unicorn FoundersDesign Thinking + Data Science + Lean Startup
Mission Driven We help people invest in their beliefs
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
Initial idea
Startup Chile
Prototype1
Prototype2
Data processing
Lab80 opens
team of 5
team of 4 + hiring
201102
201104
201106
201108
201111
201202
201206
201209
Peru
Brazil
Srsquopore
Seoul
SF
Seoul
Seoul
Seoul
unicorn ranch at lab80international search for bootstrap city
We opened Lab80 in SeoulldquoGood talent at a lower costrdquo
httpwwwflickrcomphotoscubagallery7690090178
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
unicorn ranch at lab80benefits of being one in korea
Kevin kellyfounder of wired
tim brownceo of ideo
We get to meet amp host Industry leaders and thinkers from the US
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
unicorn ranch at lab80principles of a ranch
1 set up an environmentcommon goals
common languagebasic structure amp process
2 we all run as fast as we canin the same direction
3 See who keeps up
Just enough to establish the direction to run toward
Recognition amp flex time
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
lab80 experiment summer 20121 set up an environment
weekly release
weekly user tests
customer feedback
team synthesis
pitch amp demo to all guests
crit amp checkpoint
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
lab80 experiment summer 20122 run as fast as we can
8 weeks
5 prototypes 11 releases
16 user interviews
200+ user quantitative test
5+ events amp talks
20+ talents interviewed
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
lab80 experiment summer 20123 see who keeps up
who thrives
those who really want to improveldquowillingnessrdquo to improve isnrsquot enough
ldquogreedyrdquo and ambitious people do well
people with solid vertical skillsT-shaped gt i-shaped gt generalists
culture fit and point of viewtrumps process or resume
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
lab80 experiment summer 2012an idea to reinforce the unicorn mentality
immersion in excellence
ldquowork in the valleyrdquo monthevery year
we will take the entire teamto san fracisco
or another unicorn habitatand work there for a month
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 13
The best way to become a unicorn is to
Work with unicorns and see if you can grow into one
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 23
You canrsquot teach someone to become T-shaped or a unicorn
Either you are unicorn materialor you arenrsquot
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
unicorn ranch at lab80lessons learned 33
In order to not ldquoburn through peoplerdquo
We have to be rigorous and selective in the beginning
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
to sum it upthere is a cultural shift
We need T-shaped people to compete in this age
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
a unicorn ranch in koreadesire vs reality
Desire
Reality
Threadless Allan Faustino
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are frustrated
Wersquove been here 7 monthsinterviewing dozens of people
And wersquove had only one recruiting success
Here are 3 things we are really sick of hearing from the Koreans we meet
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or Google
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 13
After working at a startup
I can get a nice job at Samsung or GoogleWorking at a startup is a privilege
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study it
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 23
Oh I need to learn a new skill
Irsquoll buy a book and study itFck textbooks Learn by doing
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
a unicorn ranch in koreahow it sucks - 33
Shit I donrsquot know the answer so
Irsquoll shut up and wait until you tell me the correct answer
We donrsquot care what you already know Problem-solve
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
a unicorn ranch in koreawe are discouraged
expat recruitinginstead of hiring korean talents
remote collaboration
with unicorns in sfoverseas
instead of looking for Korean talents
hierarchy amp apprenticeship
instead of finding peers who will have a
ldquoseat at the tablerdquo
We are considering
this is not what we want
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what do you thinkare we wrong
We donrsquot have a great impression of Korean talent pool so far
Can Korea compete in this environment
Do you see an excellent startup coming out of Korea now Next year Ever
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
what do you thinkquestion us challenge us
Are you T-shaped Talk to usLab80co
keywonc
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers
references
Richard Buchanan IxDA Keynote How design makes our own subject matter
Tim Brown T-Shaped People ChiefExecutivenet Interview
Unicorn Designer Hiring a Designer
Advertising Talent Gap New York Times article
Quora Short Supply of Designers httpwwwquoracomDesignersWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-designers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Short Supply of Developers httpwwwquoracomSilicon-ValleyWhy-is-there-such-a-stunningly-short-supply-of-good-developers-in-Silicon-Valley-right-now
Quora Facebook amp Google culture httpwwwquoracomFor-a-CS-major-out-of-college-which-is-better-taking-a-job-as-a-Facebook-Software-Engineer-or-Google-
37Signals Getting Real httpgettingreal37signalscom
37Signals FastCompany Interview httpwwwfastcompanycom300085237signals-earns-millions-each-year-its-ceoE28099s-model-his-cleaning-lady
FiftyThree httpwwwfiftythreecomabout
Make Opinionated Products Tablet PC vs iPad httpwwwcultofmaccom126116steve-jobs-created-the-ipad-to-show-one-microsoft-employee-what-a-tablet-really-can-be
What itrsquos like to work at Stripe httpblogalexmaccawcomstripes-culture
Donrsquot Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar httpbitlyTrCjL0
Lab80 Keywon Chung httpwwwlinkedincominkeywon
Lab80 Michael Shilman httpwwwlinkedincominshilman
Why Canrsquot Startups Find Designers