Note To Readers: The observations in this blog post are based on meetings with nascent AI startups I have met for the first time. They are not established or funded companies. These observations have little or no congruence with the more mature companies I advise and have invested in. Therefore, please consider these observations as those from the wild field of dreams inhabited by zero- and early-stage startups.
As a former CTO I often share my perspective with other first time CTOs. And though it pains me to say it, I most often have to advise them that at the end of the day the technology doesn't matter. Yes, it has to work well, must be high quality, etc. But more importantly is the market opportunity and GTM strategies to build an impactful business. CTOs need to understand and contribute toward that success - their engineering perspective might actually provide insight that is helpful to the sales and marketing functions.
As a former CTO I often share my perspective with other first time CTOs. And though it pains me to say it, I most often have to advise them that at the end of the day the technology doesn't matter. Yes, it has to work well, must be high quality, etc. But more importantly is the market opportunity and GTM strategies to build an impactful business. CTOs need to understand and contribute toward that success - their engineering perspective might actually provide insight that is helpful to the sales and marketing functions.