StartupFactory FAQ
We've gathered a few questions that come in our direction, and have put together some answers that might give you a sense of what it's like to work with StartupFactory, LLC. Our objective is not to simply "land" a customer; it's to find a good fit so that we are able to help a client achieve their specific business objectives. Hopefully the following questions and answers will help you ascertain if we are a good fit with your growing business.
What size and types of firms do you work with?
We specialize in technology start-ups.
Our entire practice is built on knowing the differences between firms of different sizes and stages of development. If you have only three employees, we can help you now, and help you plan for the near future. If you have thirty people, we understand your unique issues. If you employ fifteen hundred people, we can probably help, but you don't really fit our demographic.
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I just have one key issue where I need help, but I don't see a package that deals specifically with what we need right now. Can we still work together?
Sure we can help.
In addition to our fixed-price, core module programs, we offer a wide range of services (PR, advertising, trade show support, web development, etc.) that we provide on a more or less a-la-carte basis. Our basic consulting module is what we call StartupPLAN. It is the least expensive, yet most important of our three, entry-level modules. The StartupPLAN module begins with a straight forward, actionable, marketing plan for which we charge a flat rate of $4,500. Our core, 3-modual marketing package for start-ups (StartupPLAN, StartupID and StartupPR) provides everything you need to establish a strong marketing and communications foundation.
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How will we work together?
Toward the beginning of our relationship you'll probably see us in your office quite a bit–– perhaps once a week for a couple of months.
One or all members of our senior management team will be directly involved with your account - all the time. We are able to keep our prices down by keeping our overhead and labor costs down, and we don't use layer after of layer of middle management or junior account executives. Instead, you will have direct access to the StartupFacdtory principals for questions, answers, guidance and solutions.
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Can we get together and meet a couple times first? This is a big decision and I'd like to get a feel for how and if we can work together.
We believe in holding hands before getting married.
Our first meeting or two will be informative, thought provoking and absolutely FREE. Then, we'll spend as much time as you like answering questions by phone or email to give you a feel for how we'll approach working for you. We can also supply references once we know you are seriously interested. And of course there are lots of free articles, white papers and planners on this web site that will provide insight into how we think and work.
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What sets you apart from the other marketing firms?
Thanks for asking; there are a few key differences.
First, unlike most marketing firms and consultants, we specialize in affordable, go-to-market initiatives for start-ups and early stage, technology companies. Second, we've developed a unique, modular approach that enables us to address the most important early stage marketing issues and then solve them quickly and affordably. Our modular approach centers on developing a strong marketing foundation. We offer these core modules at an affordable set fee. Third; you will always be working with at least one member of senior management who will take the time to gain a deep understanding of your business and overall strategy. Lastly, our creative team is second to none.
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If we engage you for strategy & planning, what are your typical deliverables?
Our main deliverable is insightful analysis and transformative advice.
Our focus is not on lengthy reports; our recommendations are short and concise. If any particular issue cannot be addressed in a few pages, whomever you engage for guidance isn't focused or experienced enough to help you concentrate on the salient points.
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Can you cross out confidential info and then show me a sample plan from another client?
Sorry. It undercuts the credibility of our recommendations.
We don't believe in giving away our work, and furthermore, someone already paid for the advice. If this is a deal-buster, you may be too skeptical to benefit from a relationship with us, and it's better to figure this out early on. We recommend that you look through our web site carefully, read everything that interests you, download anything you find valuable, and get a feel for how we think and work. Then schedule a FREE consultation.
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Why do you offer so much free information on your site?
We ascribe to the "free-then-fee" business model that offers something of value at no cost, then offers premium, follow-on content for a reasonable fee.
In reality, some of what you find on our site can found elsewhere––provided you had the time to search and you knew what to look for. We consolidate lots of good information in one place for your convenience. We believe the planners, white papers, articles; etc. that we provide at no cost can help you focus on what needs to be done. Once in that frame of mind, we hope you will call us for the experience and expertise we offer.
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What are your payment terms?
All services are billed at the completion of the assignment, with payment due net 30 days.
The exception is PR, which is billed on a retainer basis with each month paid in advance. Our core modules feature up-front, published prices. For all other work, detailed estimates are provided before any project begins, and as long as the scope of work does not change drastically, the invoice will match the estimate exactly. Every time.
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Who at StartupFactory will be working with us?
Robert Goldberg, founder and president of StartupFactory, LLC will do the majority of the consulting.
Our staff includes two additional senior managers with whom you can have direct access as needed. Your involvement with StartupFactory will always include at least one member of senior management.
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How would you describe the ideal StartupFactory client?
Our ideal client is an energetic, promising, technology start-up.
Our ideal client is hiring us because of our experience and expertise.
Our ideal client submits payment promptly.
Our ideal client is engaged in our work process.
Our ideal client is thoughtful and timely in their participation.
Our ideal client is open to a challenge and a different perspective.
Our ideal client has a sense of humor. Please!