I think to some extent it depends on the kind of thing you're doing that necessitates the additional activity of a startup. Linus did not start a startup to ma

I think to some extent it depends on the kind of thing you're doing that necessitates the additional activity of a startup. Linus did not start a startup to make Linux. He still hasn't bothered with one, though he certainly could have done so at various points. Similar stories exist with a huge number of open source projects. Basically it seems like you only have to start one if: -You don't get enough time any other way. -You need additional resources to build the project. -You like the people and energy. -You want the money.