B2B Studios Succeed More

Shaan Puri shares his experience and insights about startup studios, particularly contrasting B2B versus consumer approaches. He emphasizes that B2B-focused studios tend to have better success rates, drawing from his firsthand experience and observations of other studio models.

Key Points:

• Startup Studio Evolution:

  • Many successful entrepreneurs start studios with their "lottery winnings"
  • Historically had very low success rates, with recent improvements
  • Notable successes include Atomic (HIMSS) and Pre Hype (Barkbox)

• B2B Focus Advantages:

  • Consumer products are harder due to fickle customer base
  • B2B problems are easier to identify and solve
  • Companies like eFounders succeed by focusing solely on SaaS
  • Problems are often discovered through their own company experiences

• Structural Improvements:

  • Atomic's Reformed Approach:
    • One project at a time
    • 9-month timeline to raise Series A
    • Clear do-or-die mentality
    • Founder takes CEO role

• Core Challenges with Studios:

  • Lack of focus across multiple projects
  • Easy to get distracted by new exciting projects
  • Loss of "do-or-die" mentality crucial for startups
  • Multiple options can dilute commitment to solving hard problems

• Success Framework:

  • Studios are "dope for fun" but not optimal for success
  • Better to pick one startup and go all-in
  • Need for laser focus on making something successful
  • Maintaining urgency and commitment is crucial