How to Apply Lean Startup Tactics in Asia – and Win the Emerging Global Startup Wars
Kevin Dewalt, Beijing China
So why should YOU care about Asia?You are here
Win America 1st
Win Here
Win America 1st then expand
Win HereThen Here
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2009 2010 2011 2012 20130
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WhatsAppWeChat
Fast growth in Asia expand to America
Expand Here
Start Here
Expand Here
Asia Growth Global partnerships, endorsements
Expand Here
Start Here
Expand Here
WhatsApp now growing in Asia!
Expand Here
Start Here
Expand Here
Expand Here
Get CRUSHED - even in America - by Asian competitors
So why should YOU care about Asia?
Get CRUSHED - even in America - by Asian competitors
or
Build a BIGGER, STRONGER company by winning in Asian markets
So why should YOU care about Asia?
Your Old Plan
Win HereThen Here
Their Plan
Crush You HereStart Here
Crush You Here
Your New Plan Enter Asian Markets Early!
Start Here Expand Here
What Works in Silicon Valley Doesn’t Work Everywhere
Lean Startup? YES!Customer Development? YES!
Theory same - execution different
Start exploring Asian markets at Product/Market fit
Too early – keep searching
Too late – get killed
About here
Assume nothing about the customers & culture
Get advice on doing Customer Development there
Most Important!
Find local Lean Startup experts & get advice
Some specific tactics
In Silicon Valley we talk openly about problems
?
Asian Customers: “We have NO problems!”
Don’t be direct - create a conversation
• Talk about industry trends• Bring them valuable information
Silicon Valley has a language for strategies
MVP
Strategies may not translate
• Partners, investors, employees don’t have language or context – might be new to them.
MVP?
Focus on tactics & outcomes
“Let’s build something small first - to see if they buy.”
In Silicon Valley we believe in meritocracy
Best = win
Relationships (sometimes) trump value关系
So give, share, help, teach – become “someone worth knowing”
Asia is your greatest threat opportunity
• Start early• Get local help• Adapt Lean Startup to local market• Teach & help to build relationships
Want more? kevindewalt.com/lean_asia @kevindewalt