It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the tools, platforms, and acronyms thrown around in startup land. But in the beginning, you don’t need a “tech stack.” You need just enough to build, learn, and grow.
This guide walks you through what tech you actually need in your first 6 to 12 months and how to avoid burning time or budget on the wrong tools.
Start With the Problem, Not the Tools
Before you pick tools, know what you're solving for. Are you trying to validate demand? Launch a product? Collect leads? Each phase calls for different systems. Don’t build infrastructure for a business that doesn’t exist yet.
The 6 Tools Most Startups Actually Need
- Website Builder: Use Webflow, Wix, or Framer. Launch fast. Look legit.
- Form + Lead Capture: Tally, Typeform, or Jotform will do the job.
- Email System: Mailerlite or ConvertKit for sequences and updates.
- Basic CRM or Database: Airtable or Notion to track leads and feedback.
- Scheduling Tool: Calendly or SavvyCal to eliminate email ping-pong.
- AI Assistant: ChatGPT to write, plan, and research faster.
What You Don’t Need Yet
- Custom app development unless you’ve validated core demand
- Enterprise software with per-user fees and complex onboarding
- Tech you chose because a podcast guest said it was “the best”
Use Tech to Test, Not Just Build
Your early tech choices should help you learn fast. Can you gather customer data? Ship changes quickly? Test messaging? If your tools aren’t helping you validate or sell, they’re not helping yet.
When to Upgrade
Start upgrading your stack when:
- Your systems are bottlenecking growth
- You have paying customers or growing demand
- You’ve hit limits with your current tools
Until then, keep it light and flexible.
Need Help Choosing the Right Stack?
Bramble helps startup founders pick tools and systems that match their stage, not their aspirations. If you want an outside eye on your tech decisions, let’s talk.