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Ask HN: I know this isn't reddit, but please review my cannabis-related startup

news.ycombinator.com

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Re: Ask HN: I know this isn't reddit, but please review my cannabis-related startup

#24

Post by Alex3917 »

There is definitely a need for a website like this. Right now the way strains are rated is terrible and tells you nothing about what the effects are actually like. Usually the descriptions just say something like, "uplifting and energetic" or whatever. Meh. My criticisms would be:

1) Explain how the rating system works. It's not obvious just by looking at it that you only get five point to allocate within each category.

2) Consider bringing the rating system more in line with the academic research, specifically with the book On Being Stoned.

http://www.druglibrary.org/special/tart/tart8.htm

http://www.druglibrary.org/special/tart/tart11.htm

There are several chapters worth of different effects, and since each strain is fairly consistent in its effects I think it makes sense to at least give users the chance to fill out a lengthier survey.

3) Bad design. Good design is supposed to remind you of something. This doesn't remind me of anything. Except maybe a generic web 2.0 looking site like OMGPOP. I'm not sure what the right look and feel is for a cannabis ratings guide, but I'm pretty sure this isn't yet. Maybe something that borrows inspiration from Zagats and Google Maps? You need a design that signals to a first time visitor that this is the authoritative site for this information, and this design doesn't send that signal at all.

4) If you want to start a marijuana-based web startup then you should make software for the dispensaries. This is enormous demand for this and it's completely unfilled. As a website I like leaf.ly conceptually, but as a startup I think it's most likely a really crappy idea.

Re: Ask HN: I know this isn't reddit, but please review my cannabis-related startup

#25

Post by rdoherty »

Nice site. What's your goal for users visiting? I see a signup link at the top right, which will be missed. If you want to get users to signup there should be a big signup button somewhere in the middle of the page.

An API?! Awesome! Seriously, kudos, this is a great site.

Re: Ask HN: I know this isn't reddit, but please review my cannabis-related startup

#27

Post by drfloob »

The "explore" interface is really slick, but I can't link to or bookmark a search filter to share with anyone. It'd be easier to spread the word if I could pre-filter strains based on someone's particular needs/personality, and link them directly to that.

Also, since this is a startup, how do you plan to make a business out of this site?

Re: Ask HN: I know this isn't reddit, but please review my cannabis-related startup

#29

Post by jonknee »

Might want to get a backup domain... Libya isn't necessarily someone you want holding your company by the balls. It also appears they don't want offending content on .ly domains:

"3.5 The Applicant certifies that, to the best of his/her knowledge the domain name is not being registered for any activities/purpose not permitted under Libyan law."

http://www.nic.ly/regulations.php

Re: Ask HN: I know this isn't reddit, but please review my cannabis-related startup

#30

Post by mbubb »

inmygarage wrote: post #8

I think as marijuana legalization becomes more of an inevitability, the stigma surrounding this very real market opportunity will disappear. Kudos to you for getting in early.

I agree - and like the site. Good clean design, am not an expert in the area but could get a sense of the different indices right off the bat.
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