Bliss + Dustin Blank mtg debrief

Attendees: Dustin J Ross, Bliss Perry Date: March 6, 2026 Type: Partner Session

Summary

Anne (PhD computer scientist) shared new product development approach
- Opposite of lean startup methodology
- Build 10 different versions, put in users’ hands immediately
- Use as vehicle for customer discovery vs traditional ideation
- Similar to Palantir’s approach: daily iteration based on user feedback
Digital twin concept appears feasible with current AI tools
- Use Claude for parameter estimation, fab location mapping
- Multiple implementation paths: data architecture, LLM fine-tuning, data silos
- Three data tiers: public, proprietary, classified
- Potential for agentic tool integration vs standalone dashboard

Shiny demo as meeting catalyst
- Low development cost with AI tools
- Hook for getting meetings with decision makers
- Bliss willing to share with network contacts
Compliance tool as revenue generator
- Less exciting but commercially viable
- Meat and potatoes after the flashy demo
Traveling salesman strategy: lead with exciting, fall back to practical

Potential downsides of digital twin focus:
- No clear commercial viability
- Abstract path to revenue
- Upstream vs downstream supply chain positioning
- Less clear regulatory wedge compared to compliance
Benefits over compliance-only approach:
- Avoids “business school company” trap
- Differentiates from meat grinder competition
- Enables offensive vs defensive positioning