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The Cult of the NDA

Posted by michael on from the all-hail-the-graven-image dept.

Anonymous Coward writes "After looking at hundreds of business plans during the tech boom of the late 1990's, and starting my own company two years ago, I've long been bothered by the near obsession with secrecy shown by many tech startups. This is especially striking considering how few startups are actually pursuing unique ideas. I finally wrote an article about this, The Cult of the NDA, where I argue that too much secrecy can actually hurt a company's chances. Open-source startups, anyone?"

3 of 284 comments (clear)

  1. I'd really like to discuss this story by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    But I signed an NDA saying I wouldn't. Sorry.

  2. The first rule.... by mrpuffypants · · Score: 5, Funny

    The first rule of NDA Cult is - you do not talk about NDA Cult.

    The second rule of NDA Cult is - you DO NOT talk about NDA Cult.

    Third rule of NDA Cult, someone yells "Stop!", gets an attorney, or finds shredded documents then deny all knowledge.

    Fourth rule, only two guys to a fight(When beans are spilled).

    Fifth rule, as many NDA's at a time, fellas.

    Sixth rule, no wires, no cell phones.

    Seventh rule, NDAs will go on as long as they have to.

    And the eighth and final rule, if this is your first night at NDA Club, you have to shut up about what you see.

  3. Re:Open source startups? How about yours? by Kenja · · Score: 4, Funny

    Geek to VC: We gots a great biz plan. We're going to spend your money devloping a product that will be downloadable for free!
    VC: SECURITY!!!!!

    --

    "Have you ever thought about just turning off the TV, sitting down with your kids, and hitting them?"