Lean Startup Machine Johannesburg takes place from 31 October to 2 November 2014 at Jozihub.
Prof Barry Dwolatzky, director of the Joburg Centre for Software Engineering (JCSE) is a mentor for the 2014 workshop and says that the concept of “Lean Startup” is all about advancing the practice of entrepreneurship to better utilise human potential.
He says that Lean Start-up is the latest idea in terms of how to support and train entrepreneurs: “I am delighted be involved in the event and look forward to supporting participants as they work through the steps of developing a business model.”
According to Prof Dwolatzky instead of starting with a detailed business plan, the Lean Start-up approach encourages start-ups to use Customer Discovery, using a tool called the Business Model Canvas, which investigates key assumptions: “This is a critical step as only then do participants start moving forward with their respective businesses.”
Speaking from a significant level of experience, Prof Dwolatzky is also one of the founders and passionate drivers behind the Tshimologong Precinct, an innovative, new-age digital technology skills and development hub in Joburg’s inner city.
Dwolatzky says Tshimologong is the culmination of the JCSE’s objective to create a nucleus for digital technology innovation on the continent: “The Tshimologong Precinct is destined to become Joburg’s major digital tech hub. We promote best practice, tools and methodologies, blended with professional experience from the sector to grow South Africa’s ability to deliver world-class innovative digital technology through research and training.”
Lean Startup Machine is an intensive three-day workshop, which teaches entrepreneurs and innovators how to build disruptive products. For more information visit www.leanstartupmachine.com. For more about the Tshimologong Precinct visit www.jcse.org.za.