> That first proto-type that you are building to throw away ends of course up being the first product you ship. This is a good thing to remember. I'd also add

> That first proto-type that you are building to throw away ends of course up being the first product you ship. This is a good thing to remember. I'd also add that at best the prototype ends up as the Ship of Theseus, it may gradually be replaced piece by piece. The idea that you'll have a chance to re-build the entire thing starting at 0 is a myth. True prototypes are possible within the product, but not the product itself. Anyone considering joining or starting a start-up (business and technical side) should be aware of that and plan accordingly.