YC
Critiquing Software Startup Websites with CEO of Glide
@ Y Combinator
12/08/23
Takeaways
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
Developer tools are gaining popularity, and designing a website for developers requires a unique approach compared to other types of websites.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
When critiquing developer tool websites, I look for social proof, such as GitHub repositories and their star ratings, as well as clear calls to action for trying the product immediately.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
It's important for the landing page of a developer tool to have a prominent button that allows users to try the product right away, ideally through an interactive playground.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
The text used for code samples on a developer tool website should be larger and more legible than the marketing copy to emphasize its importance.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
The call to action to join a waitlist may not be the most effective; instead, prioritizing user engagement through interactive experiences can lead to more conversions.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
Having pricing on a developer tool website indicates that it is a product rather than just a project, which can instill confidence in potential users about its longevity and support.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
Highlighting what each line of code does in plain English helps quickly understand a foreign codebase.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
The feature grid design, often referred to as a bento box design, effectively presents major features in interlocking rectangles with titles, descriptions, and illustrations.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
The thoughtful design of the website indicates a strong care for user experience, rather than just dumping code into a box.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
A vibrant open-source project is indicated by having multiple contributors and activity, which signals health and engagement.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
When building a developer tool, especially in the early stages, it's crucial to show the product and code examples on the website to attract developers.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
For a mature product like Mozart Data, the pricing strategy suggests targeting larger companies, which require detailed information before making purchasing decisions.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
The main call to action on the Mozart Data site is to book a demo, indicating a sales-oriented approach rather than just providing code downloads.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
Sweep's messaging suggests it helps developers focus on shipping code by managing technical debt, allowing more time for actual coding.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
Sweep automates the process of creating pull requests from GitHub issues, streamlining the development workflow.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
Sweep automatically creates pull requests against your code base based on the issues you file, and it's crucial to clearly communicate this exciting functionality on the website to avoid losing potential users.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
It's essential for startup websites to immediately convey their core functionality; otherwise, visitors may miss out on valuable tools if the information is too nuanced or buried.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
Being highly available to customers through tools like the Intercom app is vital for early-stage companies; founders should be accessible and responsive, even during personal time.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
As a small company, your responsiveness and personal availability can be a significant advantage over larger companies, which often lack direct access to decision-makers.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
Engaging directly with customers as a founder can create a strong impression and foster trust, making it easier to build relationships and gain feedback.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
The website for Sweep needs to highlight that it can automatically write pull requests against GitHub repositories based on tickets, as this is a key selling point that is currently underemphasized.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
For the Mirrorful website, it's important to clarify what the product is and how it benefits developers before diving into technical details, as users appreciate transparency and clarity.
DS
David Siegel
12/08/23
@ Y Combinator
When presenting developer tools, it's beneficial to provide succinct details that establish credibility with a technical audience, rather than just stating that the product requires no work.