Matthias Isler

CTO - Entrepreneur

Leadership & Management Software Engineering Strategy & Business Development Infrastructure & Security DataScience & Analytics Human Resources & Recruiting Startup: Founding & Funding Project Management Agile & Lean Entrepreneurship Innovation Artificial Intelligence Cloud Computing Mobile Development Web Development

Switzerland / Zurich, Switzerland English - English German - Deutsch

With 20 years in software engineering, including 10 years as a CTO, I've co-founded startups, achieving a successful exit. I've scaled SaaS and marketplace ventures to seven-figure revenues and developed AI-powered quant finance technology. My expertise spans web and mobile applications, cloud infrastructures, AI/ML, DevOps, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. As an author of popular open-source libraries, I'm well-regarded in the tech scene. I specialize in technology strategy, product management, and leading remote engineering teams across services, automotive, finance, legal, and NPO industries, ensuring scalable and innovative solutions for tech ventures. PLEASE READ BEFORE BOOKING: 1) Due to limited capacity, I can currently only offer mentoring sessions to entrepreneurs who run a startup or scale-up. Thanks for your understanding. 2) Mentoring Club doesn't currently sync with external calendars. Please check my availability in my calendar before booking a slot: https://matthiasisler.youcanbook.me/

My Mentoring Topics

- Entrepreneurship
- Software Engineering & Architecture
- Data (Architecture, Analytics, Warehouse, Intelligence)
- SaaS & Marketplaces
- Digital Business Models
- Strategy

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Awareness - Conversations with the Masters

Anthony De Mello

Key Facts or Insights from "Awareness - Conversations with the Masters" Exploration of the concept of 'Awareness' and its impact on human relationships and spirituality. Introduction to the importance of self-discovery and introspection. Emphasis on the power of detachment and letting go of preconceived notions and societal conditioning. Insights on the illusion of fear and the freedom that comes from overcoming it. Explanation of how societal norms and expectations can limit individual freedom and happiness. The role of love and compassion in achieving true awareness and peace. Insights on how to achieve happiness and fulfillment by living in the present moment. The concept of 'Waking up' from the illusions created by our mind. Discussion on the difference between belief and faith, and their role in spirituality. Insights on how to dismantle our false self-images to discover our true selves. The importance of understanding and accepting the reality of death. Detailed Summary and Analysis "Awareness - Conversations with the Masters" is a profound work by Anthony De Mello, a spiritual teacher, psychotherapist, and Jesuit priest, who has been instrumental in blending Eastern spiritual wisdom with Western psychological insight. At the core of the book is the concept of 'Awareness'. De Mello emphasizes that awareness is the key to understanding ourselves and our relationships, leading to a more fulfilling, peaceful life. This idea resonates with many psychological and spiritual teachings, such as mindfulness and the Buddhist concept of 'Vipassana', which means 'seeing things as they really are'. The importance of self-discovery and introspection is another key theme in the book. De Mello encourages readers to look within themselves to uncover their true nature, free from societal conditioning and preconceived notions. This echoes the teachings of Greek philosopher Socrates, who famously said, "Know thyself." Through self-discovery, we can detach ourselves from these illusions and experience true freedom. Fear is another illusion that De Mello addresses in the book. He argues that fear is a product of the mind and that overcoming it can lead to immense freedom and peace. This perspective aligns with the teachings of many spiritual traditions, such as Hinduism and Buddhism, which view fear as a hindrance to spiritual growth. De Mello also scrutinizes societal norms and expectations, arguing that they limit our freedom and happiness. He encourages readers to question these norms and live according to their own truths. This idea echoes the existentialist philosophy, which emphasizes individual freedom and responsibility. Love and compassion play a significant role in achieving true awareness, according to De Mello. He explains that these qualities are not just feelings but states of being that can transform our lives. This aligns with the teachings of many spiritual traditions, including Christianity and Buddhism, which view love and compassion as paths to spiritual enlightenment. Living in the present moment is another key concept in the book. De Mello argues that happiness and fulfillment can only be found in the present, not in the past or future. This idea resonates with the teachings of mindfulness and Eckhart Tolle's concept of 'The Power of Now'. The book also explores the concept of 'waking up' from the illusions created by our mind. This idea aligns with the Buddhist concept of 'enlightenment', which is about seeing reality as it is, free from illusions. In addition to these concepts, De Mello discusses the difference between belief and faith, and their role in spirituality. He argues that belief is based on the mind and can create illusions, while faith is based on direct experience of reality. Lastly, the book deals with the reality of death. De Mello encourages readers to understand and accept death, which can lead to a deeper appreciation of life. This perspective is similar to the Stoic philosophy, which views the acceptance of death as a path to a more fulfilling life. In conclusion, "Awareness - Conversations with the Masters" is a thought-provoking exploration of the human mind and spirit. It offers insightful, practical advice for achieving true awareness and peace, challenging societal norms, and embracing the reality of life and death. Whether you're a student of psychology, a spiritual seeker, or just someone looking for a more fulfilling life, this book is a valuable resource.

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Wherever You Go, There You Are - Mindfulness meditation for everyday life

Jon Kabat-Zinn

Mindfulness is about being present in the moment – it is the essence of mindfulness meditation and involves paying attention to the here and now. Non-judgmental awareness – observing thoughts and feelings without judging them or trying to change them. Meditation practice is for everyone – it is not limited to any specific group and can benefit individuals from various backgrounds. Formal and informal mindfulness practices – includes structured meditation sessions as well as integrating mindfulness into daily activities. Mindfulness can reduce stress and enhance well-being – regular practice helps manage stress and improve overall mental health. Acceptance and letting go – key components involve accepting things as they are and letting go of the need to control or change experiences. Mindfulness is a way of being – it’s not just a practice but a way of living and interacting with the world. Self-compassion – being kind and gentle with oneself is crucial in the practice of mindfulness. Patience and persistence are necessary – developing mindfulness is a gradual process and requires consistent effort over time. Mindfulness in everyday life – it can be applied to simple daily activities such as eating, walking, and even breathing. Mindfulness meditation is fundamentally about being present in the moment. **Mindfulness is about being present in the moment**; it invites individuals to pay attention to their current experience rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. This practice of present-moment awareness is the backbone of mindfulness meditation and serves as the foundation for other principles outlined in the book. A crucial aspect of mindfulness is **non-judgmental awareness**. This means observing thoughts and feelings without immediately labeling them as good or bad or trying to alter them. This non-judgmental stance helps create a mental space where individuals can experience their thoughts and emotions fully without being overwhelmed or reactive. The author emphasizes that **meditation practice is for everyone**. Mindfulness is a universal practice that transcends cultural, religious, and social boundaries. It is accessible to all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, and can offer profound benefits for personal growth and mental well-being. The book delineates **formal and informal mindfulness practices**. Formal practices include structured meditation sessions, such as sitting meditation, body scan, and mindful breathing. Informal practices involve integrating mindfulness into everyday activities like eating, walking, or even washing dishes. This holistic approach ensures that mindfulness becomes a seamless part of daily life. One of the significant benefits of mindfulness meditation is its ability to **reduce stress and enhance well-being**. Regular practice helps individuals manage stress more effectively, leading to improved mental health and emotional resilience. By cultivating a mindful attitude, people can navigate life's challenges with greater ease and composure. **Acceptance and letting go** are key components of mindfulness. These principles involve accepting things as they are without resistance and letting go of the need to control or change experiences. This mindset fosters a sense of peace and equanimity, allowing individuals to live more harmoniously with life's ups and downs. Mindfulness is not just a practice; it is **a way of being**. It is about developing a mindful attitude toward life and embracing each moment with awareness and openness. This approach transforms mindfulness from a periodic activity into a continuous state of being that permeates all aspects of life. **Self-compassion** is another essential element highlighted in the book. Being kind and gentle with oneself, especially during moments of difficulty or failure, is crucial for cultivating a mindful and healthy mindset. This self-compassionate approach helps individuals build a positive relationship with themselves, fostering inner strength and emotional balance. Cultivating mindfulness requires **patience and persistence**. Developing a mindful way of being is a gradual process that unfolds over time with consistent practice and effort. It is important to approach mindfulness with a patient and persistent attitude, understanding that progress may be slow but steady. Finally, mindfulness can be integrated into **everyday life**. Simple daily activities such as eating, walking, or even breathing can become opportunities for mindfulness practice. By bringing mindful awareness to these routine tasks, individuals can enrich their everyday experiences and cultivate a deeper sense of presence and connection. In conclusion, the principles and practices outlined in the book provide a comprehensive guide to understanding and implementing mindfulness in daily life. By embracing present-moment awareness, non-judgmental observation, and self-compassion, individuals can significantly enhance their mental and emotional well-being. The journey of mindfulness is one of patience, persistence, and continuous growth, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

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MINDFULNESS FOR BEGINNERS.

JON. KABAT ZINN

Mindfulness for Beginners: Insights and Analysis Key Facts and Insights **Mindfulness is about being fully present in the moment.** **Non-judgmental awareness is crucial to mindfulness practice.** **Mindfulness can be cultivated through regular practice.** **Mindfulness reduces stress and enhances emotional well-being.** **Breathing is a foundational element in mindfulness practice.** **Mindfulness involves accepting things as they are.** **It encourages a deeper connection with oneself and surroundings.** **Mindfulness can improve focus and productivity.** **It helps in recognizing and managing thoughts and emotions.** **Mindfulness is accessible to everyone, regardless of background.** Summary and Analysis The book offers a comprehensive introduction to the practice of mindfulness, aiming to make it accessible for beginners. The core concept emphasized is that **mindfulness is about being fully present in the moment**. This means paying attention to what is happening right now, without getting caught up in past regrets or future anxieties. One of the fundamental insights of the book is the importance of **non-judgmental awareness**. This involves observing thoughts, emotions, and sensations without labeling them as good or bad. Such an approach helps in reducing the emotional charge associated with different experiences, creating a more balanced mental state. Regular practice is highlighted as crucial for cultivating mindfulness. The book provides practical exercises and meditations to help integrate mindfulness into daily life. This consistent practice is shown to **reduce stress and enhance emotional well-being**, making it a valuable tool for mental health. Breathing is identified as a **foundational element in mindfulness practice**. By focusing on the breath, individuals can anchor themselves in the present moment. This simple yet powerful technique helps in calming the mind and improving concentration. Another key insight is the importance of **accepting things as they are**. This acceptance does not mean resignation but rather acknowledging reality without resistance. Such an attitude fosters resilience and a more peaceful state of mind. Mindfulness encourages a **deeper connection with oneself and surroundings**. By being fully present, individuals can appreciate the richness of each moment and develop a more profound understanding of themselves and the world around them. The practice of mindfulness is also shown to **improve focus and productivity**. By reducing distractions and enhancing attention, individuals can perform tasks more efficiently and with greater clarity. An essential aspect of mindfulness is the ability to **recognize and manage thoughts and emotions**. By observing them without attachment, individuals can gain insight into their mental patterns and develop healthier responses. Importantly, the book emphasizes that **mindfulness is accessible to everyone**, regardless of their background or life circumstances. It is a universal practice that can benefit anyone willing to give it a try. In conclusion, the book provides a thorough introduction to mindfulness, offering practical tools and insights for integrating this practice into daily life. By emphasizing presence, non-judgmental awareness, acceptance, and regular practice, it equips readers with the knowledge to enhance their mental well-being and overall quality of life.

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The Great Work of Your Life - A Guide for the Journey to Your True Calling

Stephen Cope

Summary and Insights Summary and Insights Key Facts and Insights Emphasis on discovering one's true calling or dharma. Utilizes stories of famous individuals to illustrate key points. Integration of the Bhagavad Gita's teachings with contemporary life. Four fundamental principles to follow one's dharma. Importance of understanding and embracing one's limitations. Role of passion in achieving one's true calling. The necessity of letting go of the fruits of one's labor. Encourages self-awareness and mindfulness practices. Focus on the interplay between individual effort and divine guidance. Discussion on the role of community and support in fulfilling one's dharma. In-Depth Summary and Analysis The book is a compelling exploration of how to discover and follow one's true calling, or **dharma**. Drawing inspiration from the **Bhagavad Gita**, an ancient Indian text, the book weaves together timeless wisdom and modern stories to guide readers on their journey to a meaningful life. **Dharma**, a core concept in the book, refers to one's unique purpose or mission in life. The author emphasizes that discovering and fulfilling this dharma is crucial to achieving true happiness and fulfillment. The book uses narratives of well-known individuals such as **Walt Whitman** and **Harriet Tubman** to demonstrate how diverse and impactful one's dharma can be. Central to the book are **four fundamental principles** that serve as a roadmap for following one's dharma: Look to Your Dharma: Understand and embrace your unique gifts and passions. This involves deep self-reflection and recognition of what truly excites and motivates you. Do It Full Out: Commit wholeheartedly to your calling. This principle underscores the importance of passion and dedication in pursuing your dharma. Let Go of the Fruits: Focus on the work itself rather than the outcomes. This idea, rooted in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, encourages detachment from the results of one's efforts. Turn It Over to God: Acknowledge the role of divine guidance in your journey. This principle highlights the interplay between personal effort and a higher power's influence. The book also delves into the importance of understanding and embracing one's **limitations**. Accepting limitations allows individuals to focus on their strengths and avoid the pitfalls of overextending themselves. The author argues that acknowledging these boundaries is essential for personal growth and finding one's true path. Passion is another critical theme. The book posits that passion is a driving force in achieving one's true calling. It is through passionate engagement with one's work that individuals can make a significant impact and find fulfillment. This ties into the idea that work should be an expression of one's deepest self. One of the more profound teachings is the necessity of **letting go of the fruits of one's labor**. This principle encourages individuals to detach from the outcomes of their work and focus instead on the process. By doing so, one can maintain a sense of peace and purpose, regardless of external success or failure. **Self-awareness and mindfulness practices** are emphasized throughout the book as tools for discovering and following one's dharma. These practices help individuals stay grounded, focused, and in tune with their inner selves, which is crucial for understanding their true calling. The book also discusses the importance of community and support. It argues that fulfilling one's dharma is not a solitary journey but one that benefits from the encouragement and assistance of others. This communal aspect is vital for sustaining motivation and overcoming challenges. In conclusion, the book provides a comprehensive guide for anyone seeking to discover and follow their true calling. By integrating the **timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita** with contemporary examples, the book offers practical and philosophical insights that can help individuals lead a more meaningful and fulfilled life.

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The 10-Day MBA - A step-by-step guide to mastering the skills taught in top business schools

Steven Silbiger

Key Facts and Insights Structured Learning: The book provides a well-structured and systematic approach to learning MBA concepts, making it accessible to self-learners. Core Disciplines: The book covers the core disciplines of an MBA program, including Finance, Marketing, Economics, Strategy, Operations Management, Human Resources, and Ethics. Real-World Applications: The book gives practical examples to illustrate the application of concepts in the real world, providing a holistic understanding of the subject matter. Interview Preparation: This book can be a useful tool for interview preparation, especially for jobs that require a basic understanding of business management principles. Case Study Approach: The book employs the case study approach used in top business schools to explain concepts, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Self-Assessment: The book provides self-assessment resources, including quizzes and tests, to evaluate your understanding and progress. Time Management: The book is designed to deliver a comprehensive understanding of MBA concepts in a condensed time frame, making optimal use of your time. Resourceful Reference: The book serves as a handy reference guide for professionals who need a quick refresher on MBA topics. Critical MBA Skills: The book emphasizes the development of critical skills such as leadership, decision-making, and strategic thinking. Accessible Language: The book uses simple, clear language, making complex business concepts easy to understand. In-Depth Analysis and Summary "The 10-Day MBA" by Steven Silbiger is a valuable resource for anyone who seeks to develop a foundational understanding of core MBA concepts without the hefty price tag and time commitment of a traditional MBA program. It successfully condenses the vast and diverse knowledge imparted in top business schools into a single, accessible book. The book covers core MBA disciplines, including Finance, Marketing, Economics, Strategy, Operations Management, Human Resources, and Ethics. Each chapter is dedicated to one discipline, providing a comprehensive introduction to the basics. This approach allows the reader to gain a broad understanding of each discipline, making it an excellent starting point for self-learners who are new to these concepts. One of the notable strengths of the book is its emphasis on real-world applications. Silbiger illustrates the theories and models discussed in the book with practical examples, making them easier to understand and relate to. This approach not only provides a holistic understanding of the subject matter but also enables readers to apply these concepts in their professional lives. The book employs the case study approach commonly used in top business schools, which encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Each case study is designed to demonstrate a particular concept or principle, enabling readers to apply the knowledge they have gained. The book also provides self-assessment resources, including quizzes and tests, to evaluate your understanding and progress. This feature is particularly useful for self-learners who need to monitor their own learning. Silbiger designed the book to deliver a comprehensive understanding of MBA concepts in a condensed time frame, making optimal use of your time. This approach is perfect for busy professionals who want to enhance their business knowledge and skills but have limited time to do so. Moreover, the book serves as a handy reference guide for professionals who need a quick refresher on MBA topics. The clear, accessible language used in the book makes it an excellent resource for anyone seeking to understand complex business concepts. In conclusion, "The 10-Day MBA" is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the core concepts taught in an MBA program. Whether you are a self-learner, a professional looking to enhance your business knowledge, or a student preparing for an interview, this book can provide you with a solid foundation in business management principles.

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Platform Revolution: How Networked Markets Are Transforming the Economy and How to Make Them Work for You

Geoffrey G. Parker, Marshall W. Van Alstyne, Sangeet Paul Choudary

Key Facts and Insights from the Book: Understanding the Platform Business Model: Instead of traditional linear business models, platforms operate on multisided models, connecting various users and participants. Core Interaction and Network Effects: Platforms rely on facilitation of interactions between users and the value increases as more users participate. Pipe Vs Platform: Unlike traditional 'pipe' businesses that control production and supply, platforms provide the architecture for producers and consumers to interact. Openness of Platforms: Platforms thrive on openness, unlike traditional models which rely on control. Monetization Strategies: Platforms monetize through various channels like data monetization, charging usage fees, advertising, etc. Regulation Challenges: The uniqueness of platform business models brings new regulatory challenges and legal dilemmas. Future of Platforms: The future of business lies in successfully leveraging platforms and their network effects. Understanding the Platform Business Model In the book, the authors introduce a shift from traditional linear business models to the platform business model. Traditional businesses create value in a linear sequence of production and deliver it to consumers. In contrast, platforms do not create value in the same manner. Instead, they provide the infrastructure to connect different types of users - producers, consumers, service providers, etc. - and facilitate their interaction. This multisided business model is one of the defining features of platforms. The distinction between the traditional 'pipe' model and the platform model is crucial. Pipe businesses control production and supply, whereas platforms provide the architecture for producers and consumers to interact, and control the ecosystem. Core Interaction and Network Effects Platforms thrive on facilitating interactions between different users. The authors define this as the "core interaction". The value of a platform increases when more users participate. This is known as the network effect. The more users a platform has, the more valuable the platform becomes to each user. This creates a self-reinforcing cycle that can lead to rapid growth. Openness of Platforms Another defining feature of platforms is their openness. Unlike traditional businesses that rely on control, platforms operate best when they are open. This openness allows for a wide range of participants to join and contribute to the platform, increasing its value. The authors discuss how this openness can be managed to create a balance between quantity and quality of participation. Monetization Strategies The authors discuss various monetization strategies for platforms. These include data monetization, transaction fees, subscription fees, and advertising. They also highlight the importance of aligning the monetization strategy with the value creation strategy. Regulation Challenges The uniqueness of platform business models brings new regulatory challenges and legal dilemmas. The authors discuss these challenges in detail, including issues of privacy, antitrust, and labor laws. They argue that existing regulatory frameworks are not adequate to handle these challenges and call for a rethink of regulation in the era of platforms. Future of Platforms The authors conclude by discussing the future of platforms. They argue that the future of business lies in successfully leveraging platforms and their network effects. They offer insights into how businesses can transition from traditional models to platform models, and how they can manage the challenges associated with this transition. Conclusion Overall, "Platform Revolution" offers a comprehensive exploration of the rise of platforms and their impact on the economy. The authors provide an in-depth understanding of the platform business model, its key characteristics, monetization strategies, regulatory challenges, and future potential. The book serves as a guide for any business or individual seeking to understand and leverage the power of platforms.

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The Lean Startup

Eric Ries

Key Insights from "The Lean Startup" Entrepreneurship is Management: A startup is an institution that needs to be managed. The Lean Startup approach fosters companies that are both more capital efficient and that leverage human creativity more effectively. Validated Learning: Startups exist not just to make stuff, make money, or serve customers. They exist to learn how to build a sustainable business. Innovation Accounting: To improve entrepreneurial outcomes and hold innovators accountable, a new kind of accounting is needed, one that focuses on the boring stuff: how to measure progress, how to set up milestones, and how to prioritize work. Build-Measure-Learn: The fundamental activity of a startup is to turn ideas into products, measure how customers respond, and then learn whether to pivot or persevere. Pivot or Persevere: The most successful startups are able to decide when to stick to their guns and when to change direction. Minimum Viable Product (MVP): The Lean Startup method teaches you to drive a startup-how to steer, when to turn, and when to persevere-and grow a business with maximum acceleration. Continuous Deployment and Testing: The Lean Startup methodology promotes continuous rapid prototyping and a "Just do it" mindset. With rapid iterations you can decide if the product vision is viable or not. Adaptive Organization: The Lean Startup proposes an organizational structure that fosters innovation. Small Batches: The Lean Startup process works in small batches to minimize the cost of change and risk. Work smarter not harder: The Lean Startup practice advocates for entrepreneurs to work smarter not harder. Detailed Analysis "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries is a compelling and innovative approach to launching companies that are faster, smarter, and more successful. At its core, it is about learning what your customers really want and learning it quickly. It's about continuously testing what you think your customers might want and adapting based on the results, and doing this before you run out of money. Entrepreneurship is Management is a fundamental tenet of this book. An entrepreneur, according to Ries, is anyone who creates a new product or service under conditions of extreme uncertainty. This is as true for two people in a garage or a group of seasoned professionals in a Fortune 500 boardroom. Thus, managing a startup is a balancing act between sticking to your core vision and being endlessly adaptable. The concept of Validated Learning is one of the most profound insights in the book. Instead of making elaborate plans based on lots of assumptions, you can make constant adjustments with a steering wheel called the Build-Measure-Learn feedback loop. This concept involves quickly assembling a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and improving it based on feedback, as opposed to perfecting a product without any customer input. This brings us to the concept of Minimum Viable Product (MVP). The MVP is a version of a new product that allows a team to collect the maximum amount of validated learning about customers with the least effort. This strategy saves time and resources that would have otherwise been wasted on developing products that people don't want. Innovation Accounting is another significant aspect of the Lean Startup methodology. It works in three steps: using an MVP to establish real data on where the company is right now, then tuning the engine (improving the product) from the baseline towards the ideal, and finally making a decision to pivot (changing fundamental aspects of the product) or persevere. The concepts of Pivot or Persevere are central to the Lean Startup methodology. A pivot is a fundamental change in strategy that results from the feedback collected from the MVP. If the MVP isn't achieving the desired results, the startup needs to pivot by making a fundamental change to their product. If the MVP is successful, the startup can persevere and continue improving the product based on customer feedback. Continuous Deployment and Testing, Adaptive Organization, and Small Batches work in tandem to create a responsive and agile startup. Continuous Deployment allows for rapid product iteration, while small batches ensure that a startup can adapt quickly to customer feedback and market changes. The adaptive organization understands that failure is an integral part of innovation and fosters an environment that encourages learning from failure. The Lean Startup methodology encourages entrepreneurs to Work smarter not harder. It's not about the hours you put into your work. It's about the work you put into those hours. The Lean Startup methodology is not just about how to create a more successful entrepreneurial business, it's about what we can learn from those businesses to improve virtually everything we do. In conclusion, "The Lean Startup" provides a scientific approach to creating and managing successful startups in an age of uncertainty. It significantly increases the chances of building a successful venture by learning what customers want quickly and scientifically, as opposed to relying on guesswork or assumptions. This methodology has been adopted by countless startups and corporations around the world and continues to grow in popularity due to its proven success and effectiveness.

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