With AI making it easier for non-tech people to build, how technical should founders actually be?
You can now build MVPs with no-code and AI tools, no CS degree required. But once you get past the prototype, things get real. Launching a scalable product still demands technical depth. That’s why partnering with a great CTO still makes a ton of sense.
But here’s the real question:
Can a non-technical founder lead a tech product company all the way?
And if so,
Where do technical founders still have a clear edge?
Some say it’s the ability to inspire and lead technical teams. Others argue that with the right tools and vision, a strong operator can build great things regardless of tech background.
Curious what others think,
What’s the right level of technical fluency for today’s founders?
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Jobs wasn't technical, but he had another Steve in the team who was.
IMO, there should be someone skilled and experienced (because of data leaks and reliable safety solutions).
@busmark_w_nika I was thinking about Jobs while writing this post. I recently came across something that used Apple as an example of how many successful companies pair a visionary founder with a practical, technical cofounder. I think Peter Thiel mentions this dynamic in Zero to One too - how complementary cofounders often make for stronger founding teams
It depends. I know quite a few founders on X who built tools without having a technical background initially. Thanks to AI, they gained one. And by "I know," I don’t mean random people, but those I’ve had calls with at least 4-5 times, and we've been messaging for years.
But yes, most often you do need a technical partner. Especially if you want to scale quickly, that’s a must. Otherwise, you have to put in a lot of hours yourself before you acquire that knowledge.
@byalexai That’s such a great insight, must be incredible learning from so many founders over time. I’m curious though: based on your experience, how do non-technical founders who leaned on AI stack up in terms of success compared to the technical ones you’ve spoken to?