Sequoia's "Elements of Sustainable Companies"

Michael Arrington's TechCrunch post today is a great reminder of what it takes to help startups reach success.  He refers to "Elements of Sustainable Companies" from Sequoia Capital, one of the most successful venture capital firms in Silicon Valley.  While not everything discussed is applicable in troubled situations, the similarities between startups and revitalization efforts are unmistakable.

The more important common elements between them include the much needed clarity of purpose and focus on solving a key customer problem, the strength of the team - having the right and best people on board - and moving with both speed and fiscal discipline. 

Arrington rightly asserts that these principles are even more critical in the current environment of the troubled capital markets.  I've spoken with a number of VCs and the rumblings of a changing investment climate are undoubtedly present.  Startups, as well as more established companies given the liquidity crisis seen in the debt markets, will clearly be forced to do more, with less for the foreseeable future.  While it never hurts to follow such basic and yet timeless principles, as Arrington states, "ignoring them is a sure way to fail."