port:eightyeight

A change seemed to be in the air at last week’s Future Of Web Apps (FOWA). I remember FOWA 07, the conference which convinced me to give up my 9-to-5 working week and embark on a life of freelancing. That conference featured high spirits, and a heady attitude of “just get your app out there – don’t sweat the details.”

This attitude is still present in 2009, but has now gained a hint of sobriety and learning. Yes, speakers still talk of pushing apps out quickly, but not at the expense preparedness and understanding.

Speakers have encouraged startups to ensure detailed traffic analytics are in place, to realise the difficulties of attracting (paying) customers, and, most importantly, make sure you are solving an actual problem. And coupled with this years downsized venue, the web startup world suddenly feels relatively sombre.

But why? Well, to name a but a few potential reasons: the global recession, a maturing industry, crowding of the web startup world, choice of speakers, or maybe I am just getting old. Whatever the cause, I feel change is in the air.