justinireland

I've been developing a brand new concept for an interactive digital menu. I have never actually seen one of these anywhere but it seems to me like a no-brainer. The idea is that you would replace the printed menu at the front of the house with an interactive touch screen application. People could browse the menu and learn more about the establishment while they wait to be seated. You can see it here: http://innerfacelabs.com/products/interactive-digital-menu/

I haven't been promoting it too much yet because I am still developing it but so far the feedback I've gotten is "we think our customers prefer the simplicity of printed menus". I find this feedback valuable because it shows me what the market sentiment is but at the same time I believe it is wrong. Yes, there may be some people that are intimidated by this kind of technology but I also think that attitude is fading with older generations. There are so many more advantages of a software vs printed menu like sorting, filtering by ingredients, images, video, nutrition information, etc. Younger generations will grow up expecting this type of interaction that their grandparents are resisting.

So my question is: am I in denial that this type of product is beneficial or am I just so far ahead of the technology curve that the real challenge for this type of product is a general fear of technology?

My co-founders and I are interested in applying to YC. However, one of them is unsure of his ability to be in the Bay Area during the semester. He is willing to work remotely in his spare time during the YC process but would be unable to make the full-time 3 month commitment with us.

Another one of his concerns is that he is in the US on a temporary work permit while he is in the process of applying for H1B. He is afraid leaving his current job would jeopardize his H1B application.

So my questions are:

1. Is it counted against us if one of the founders is not able to relocate during the YC process? Are we better to apply with him listed as a founder not able to relocate or not include him at all in the application? 2. Has anyone else dealt with work visa issues during YC or any startup? Seems like this would be a common issue as many founders are not residents of the US.

I just launched a landing page for my startup CNTRLLR.

http://cntrllr.com

In a few words, CNTRLLR is a new open platform for device control. Its similar to what you can do with AMX and Crestron except that our platform is built using web standards so apps run directly in the browser. We are working on a low cost hardware controller along with the system software.

We are still working on the product but we want to gauge the market interest and start collecting emails from potential customers and anyone interested in joining the project.

I'm looking for feedback on the landing page and any advice from anyone with experience at this early stage.