Skip the Pitch Deck: Ride the AI Wave and Monetize Your Business Idea Fast

Introduction

In this episode of the Localization Fireside Chat, Robin Ayoub sits down with David Hirschfeld, a seasoned software development veteran and CEO of TEKYZ. With over 35 years in the tech industry, David shares his expertise on startups, AI-driven workflow transformation, and his unique Launch 1st Method. The conversation dives into actionable strategies for entrepreneurs looking to skip the traditional pitch deck and start monetizing their ideas faster. | Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/rI-qH3vHeM4

David Hirschfeld’s Journey into Software Development

Robin Ayoub: Welcome, David! Let’s start by hearing a little bit about your background. Can you introduce yourself to the audience? | Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/rI-qH3vHeM4

David Hirschfeld: Thanks, Robin. I’ve been in the software industry for over 35 years. I started out in enterprise roles with companies like Computer Associates, Intel, and Motorola. Eventually, I launched my first startup, which grew to 800 customers across 22 countries and was sold to a publicly traded firm in 2000. Since founding TEKYZ in 2007, my focus has been on custom software development and helping startups succeed. | Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/rI-qH3vHeM4

Why Startups Fail and the Launch 1st Method

Robin Ayoub: You mentioned earlier that your first startup wasn’t a smooth journey. Can you tell us about the lessons you learned and how they shaped your Launch 1st Method? | Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/rI-qH3vHeM4

David Hirschfeld: Absolutely. My second startup failed because I hesitated to generate revenue early on. I had customers using the software but didn’t start charging them. That experience taught me the importance of validating your idea with paying customers as early as possible. The Launch 1st Method focuses on identifying high-impact problems, testing solutions quickly, and generating pre-launch sales. | Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/rI-qH3vHeM4

“Your customers are the best investors you can have. Pre-launch sales prove product-market fit and reduce dependency on external funding.”

The Role of AI in Business Transformation

Robin Ayoub: AI is a major buzzword right now. How is TEKYZ using AI to innovate?

David Hirschfeld: We’re deeply involved in what we call agentic workflows, where AI agents manage various aspects of software development, from project management to debugging. AI has dramatically improved our productivity and accuracy. For instance, we’ve automated estimation processes and are building tools that simplify workflow automation for our clients. | Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/rI-qH3vHeM4

Finding Product-Market Fit and Commercializing Ideas

Robin Ayoub: For entrepreneurs out there, how do you recommend identifying product-market fit?

David Hirschfeld: Focus on solving problems that people face daily or weekly. High-impact, high-cost problems are the best starting points. Once you’ve identified the problem, build a prototype—even a high-fidelity mockup—and start pre-selling it. This approach not only validates your idea but also funds your initial development. | Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/rI-qH3vHeM4

“If your audience says, ‘I hate this problem. Can you make it stop?’—you’re on the right track.”

Overcoming Offshore Development Challenges

Robin Ayoub: Many entrepreneurs look offshore to reduce costs, but that’s not always a smooth path. What’s your take on this?

David Hirschfeld: The word ‘offshore’ often carries a negative connotation, but the key is not the location—it’s how the team operates. Ask potential partners about their processes, transparency, and track record. A low price tag often signals future problems, so focus on finding a competent, reliable team. | Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/rI-qH3vHeM4

Scaling Through Referral Partner Programs

Robin Ayoub: You’ve also developed a referral partner program. How does it work?

David Hirschfeld: It’s simple. Partners who refer clients to us earn 10% of the total invoice value for the first 12 months. This aligns incentives and helps us build a strong network. For example, a client billed at $20,000 per month could earn a partner $2,000 per month in referral fees. | Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/rI-qH3vHeM4

Conclusion

To learn more about David and TEKYZ, visit:

• TEKYZ: https://www.tekyz.com
• Scaling Smarter Episodes: https://tekyz.podbean.com/
• Schedule an Interview: www.scalingsmarter.net
• Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/rI-qH3vHeM4

Explore more from Robin Ayoub and the Localization Fireside Chat:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinayoub/
• Fireside Chat: www.L10Nfiresidechat.com
• Email: L10NFiresideChat@gmail.com

What are your thoughts on the Launch 1st Method? Share your insights in the comments below!

Until next time this is Robin Ayoub signing off!

Reach out: L10NFiresideChat@gmail.com

Or send me a note on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinayoub/