Startup Weekend West Lafayette

Or so it is planned. Here is where:

Development: A bit of a wish wash today on which language is best to use. .NET was chosen, but the code never really got off the ground before a PHP developer played around and had a compelling build. The PHP group thinks they can build an app that can scale, although there are concerns in the group. The discussion is ongoing, but the basic conclusion of having a compelling prototype is better than having a solid not finished app in .NET or Rails. The team is working through some differences of opinion, showing class by working together to try to be the first Startup Weekend to launch a compelling product by Sunday night (0-5 record right now). Just changed in the build are two big additions: ways to add usernames and the ability to build keyword lists automatically. A prototype is built, and quite fun to use. Autonomous internet chatting can get old quick, but when you are chatting across the room from someone, a simple “All your base are belong to us” is all you need.

Creative: The creative department is small, made up of just two. A simple, targeted user interface has been designed, with a simple design to back it up. The logo, seen at scrolltalk.com is a simple two color typeface in a lightly shadowed box. The interface is simple and intuitive. Very little feature creep has taken place.

Business Development: The launch of the site will not include an amazing amount of build in monetization, although long term plans are in the works.

Public Relations: A social media strategy and general media strategy is planned. A product needs to launch for the team to feel comfortable really going out for press. A humble approach.

Legal: The friendly folks at IceMiller, which we thank in almost every post (thank you!) came by this morning and were a pleasure to talk to. Scott Snively and Thomas Walsh were extremely good at listening to the Founders concerns and work on the Articles of Incorporation (a tricky thing to do with 40 cofounders), Terms of Service and a Participant Release Form.

Swag: General Startup Weekend T-Shirts were just brought out, and will be on sale to the online viewing audience shortly ($20 for American Apparel shirt, shipped in the US).