There are very few good product, design, and marketing people in tech...

I understand Dave's motivations but I don't agree with his position that investors are like football coaches. That condescension is the heart of many poor investor relationships.

@Hiten, do you really look to your investors for guidance on design and marketing? Those seem to me to be your personal strengths.

All this to nitpick on one small point in the original post. Dave naturally writes for the funding audience so that is his target of the rant. His general point I agree with.

Mostly agree. If you don't have capable designers and marketers on your team, you are severely handicapping yourself.

Also, while I might take money from an investor who doesn't have experience in these things, I wouldn't take money from one who doesn't have experience, yet insists on being involved in design and marketing decisions. It's amazing how many people feel the need to put their design/marketing stamp on a project, despite their complete ineptitude in those areas. I've seen it kill more than a few good ideas.

yeah the football coach analogy probably wasn't best example... maybe more like advisor / guide / personal trainer. still the point is valid about relevant experience. mins isn't exactly graphic design, but I do understand approach.