The Cold Start Problem
by Andrew Chen
An a16z partner on network effects: the atomic network, tipping point, escape velocity, the ceiling and the moat, with cases from Uber, Slack, Zoom and Tinder. The best practical book on building networked products.
Read it if…
you build a marketplace, social or collaboration product.
See the book →
Skip it if…
your product has no network effect.
Try instead: Platform Revolution →
Three things you will actually use
- Start with the smallest stable network.
- Solve the hard side first.
- Network effects have ceilings.
Do this first
Define your atomic network: the smallest group that stays active alone.
Our verdict
Network effects, practically.
See the book →
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