It is my understanding that the application process puts less initial weight on the demo than the application itself (based on the text preceding the application itself). However, Justin says that a good demo is the key to acceptance. Should a good application not come first, based on the wording of the application?

Jason Berlinsky

I am betting that competition is so stiff at this point that you'd seriously hurt your chances by not having a slick demo.

Well, the demo is not everything. According to this article, you must also be able to change ideas and trains of thought. What good will a demo do if you are ultimately going to change your train of thought and move on to something else?

Demos are great to crstallise thoughts and really build the platform for your application. Don't underestimate the value of the experience gained by putting put a demo. Afterall, you want to build something people use - you can't do that with an idea.

We've got a number of applications around the same core bunch of ideas. prototyping one application and getting people using it couldn't be a better validation of one's ability to execute when it comes to Y combinator. Lying back on an idea and waiting doesn't show anyone you want to make it happen.

If your idea changes - well it just means you've proved you can execute before. Get a demo out even if its very rough (anything is). Just start!

A demo shows that you can at least get something done. Even if the idea isn't good, a good demo still has a lot of value.

I have to say that this concept is unfounded on many levels. Case and point being that the basis of a good partnership is a good friendship. If I meet someone on the Internet, my first thought is that they are not who they say they are.

There is no need for social networking to extend to the business concept on this level. If you can not find a founder in your town, in real life, then start a business yourself. Either that, or don't start one at all.

Jason Berlinsky