Phase 3
Internal Communication & Team Alignment
Formalizing team alignment and onboarding core team members.
Timing Note
These actions should occur concurrently with and following the legal formations.
6Formalize Co-Founder Alignment
Key Actions:
- Regular Strategy Meetings: Schedule dedicated, regular meetings (e.g., weekly) to discuss progress, challenges, and next steps for all entities.
- Define and Document Roles & Responsibilities: Clearly delineate initial roles, responsibilities, and decision-making authority for Joseph (President/Secretary), Fletcher (Treasurer), Ben (CTO), and Mlabs.city (Dev Team) within DMI Inc. and in relation to the subsidiary. This can be formalized in a Founders' Agreement.
- Review and Approve Business Development Plan: Ensure all key team members are fully aligned on the finalized Business Development Plan.
- Shared Document Repository: Set up a secure, shared cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive) for all company documents, legal filings, plans, and important communications.
Importance
Clear communication and alignment between founders are paramount for navigating the complexities of a multi-entity startup and for presenting a united front to legal counsel, future team members, and investors.
Responsibility
Joseph Ridgway (President/Secretary), Fletcher Watson (Treasurer), Ben (CTO), Mlabs.city (Dev Team)
7Onboard and Align Core Team Members
Key Actions:
- Formalize CTO Engagement: Negotiate and execute an employment or consulting agreement with Ben (CTO), including any equity compensation (options or restricted stock) subject to vesting.
- Formalize Dev Team Engagement: Negotiate and execute an agreement with Mlabs.city (Dev Team) for development services.
- Communication Plan: Develop a plan for communicating the vision, structure, and progress to these individuals. Share relevant sections of the Business Development Plan and the company structure.
- Clarify Expectations and Potential Equity: If discussions about equity for the "talent pool" are happening, ensure clear communication about vesting schedules, roles, and expectations. This should be guided by legal counsel to ensure compliance.
- Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs): Have any individuals who will be privy to sensitive company information sign an NDA.
Importance
Keeping the core team informed and aligned fosters engagement and ensures everyone is working towards the same goals.
Responsibility
Joseph Ridgway (President/Secretary), Fletcher Watson (Treasurer), Ben (CTO), Mlabs.city (Dev Team)