I would suggest not just trying but actually doing it for at least 3 months. If you enjoy the process and learn quickly [problem solving, creating something new, etc] then programming is your thing. I didn't play Mario or Quake neither most of really good developers I know. You don't have to be a gaming nerd to succeed as a programmer.
We decided to go with Tumblr, Startup is http://www.quoteroller.com. Pretty easy and flexible in terms of customization, but, unfortunately sub-domain hosted. Once we get a bit time I think will move to Wordpress.
Gary, I am not sure if developers would be interested to partner/share the stock of non-profitable company. Usually good developers get at least one inquiry as such a week. Therefore, they got to be very careful. Besides, nowadays it is extremely hard to get a startup developed by an individual, you need to find a team.
I would strongly suggest to hire a team. And make sure you hire the best of the best, not the cheapest of the cheapest. Of course, it costs money... but... in software development you always get what you pay for or less.
I would suggest joining a solid software development team as a marketing or sales pro and get hours-for-hours deal from them.
Yeah, I understand the concern. I'm a freelance photographer (have been since 2000) and I prefer to work for cash. However, I do take on projects from time to time in exchange for a % of future income.
I'm currently filming a documentary for a band under such conditions. I believe in their music and their passion and I know there is a market for the DVD once it is a tangible product.
I know it might take some time but, I can find others that believe in my passion and vision to make this highly profitable and successful. I just need to know where such people congregate.
I'm all about building a team. That is for sure. This is my second go at this and I learned a lot before my brain fried out haha. I am not about to make the same mistakes twice.
I do appreciate the suggestion about trading hours for hours. I do enjoy bartering for services/goods with my photography (just did a simple shoot in exchange for a heap of brand new hockey goalie equipment, wee!). I didn't even consider that option for teaming up with a programming team. So, thank you for that.
Sidenote: I would hire and pay a very high rate if I was able to. Unfortunately, that illness had me out of work for years and I am just now getting back to the job market. My savings are shot from what my medical insurance didn't cover of my half a million in bills.
I swear I am not someone that looks to take advantage of others or unfairly compensate myself at the expense of another. I believe in the same notion you have about paying for the best of the best and paying what they deserve.
I just simply can not do that at this time so I can only offer what I have and fair ownership of what they put into this.
I hate when people try to take advantage of me as a photographer. Part of why I started this project is to undo that mentality of taking advantage of others and using this project to establish higher rates for all creative people.
Sorry to hear about health problems you've gone through. Wish you the best luck and, yeah, as a web developer/designer, I know it is really hard for people in creative services nowadays.
