Tuesday, December 28, 2010
What Mattered in 2010: Mike Jones, Myspace
This week, we are sharing the opinions of some of the top influencers in Southern California's high tech community. We asked the same five questions of a variety of top technology entrepreneurs, investors, and others, to hear what they're thinking about, and are sharing it here over the next two weeks.
Yesterday, we heard from Bruce Hallett of Miramar Venture Partners. Today, we're sharing the thoughts of Mike Jones, CEO of Myspace.
1. What was the biggest news for you/your firm this year?
The biggest news was a complete, new launch of a new product, strategy and brand. For us, it was a big departure from social networking and a new commitment to social entertainment.
2. In your opinion, what events, companies, or people made the biggest impact on the technology world in 2010?
No doubt, it was Facebook and Twitter, which were incredible businesses for 2010. Zynga also ranks up there, providing a completely new value that wasn't there previously. Groupon is also fantastic. But, it's also companies we've seen doing well internationally, like Spotify, which were a big surprise for us.
3. What was the biggest lesson you learned over the past year (good or bad)?
Always trust your intuition.
4. Who are the people here you think will most influence the technology world in the coming year?
I think the guys from Savings.com are doing some great stuff, Jason Nazar at DocStoc continues to impress, and I'm also a big believer in Ian Swanson, who is a local entrepreneur. I also think that Adam Bain, who is no longer local but is now at Twitter, is someone to watch.
5. What are the technologies, companies, or things you think the community ought to pay the most attention to in 2011?
One is to watch the companies who have the ability to leverage the power of social. The second thing, is to look at companies who are creating value on mobile and the web that is not advertising based. The third one, of course, is Myspace!
See more insights from the Southern California high tech community in our continued series tomorrow!