The explanation they provide about the data model and approach to the solution seems well thought out. However, despite their emphasis on simplicity I couldn't help but think it seemed thoroughly complicated when the demo finally started.
Do you also think launching their "collaborative task and project management software" for free initially is a clever marketing move?
I think it has potential, if the software is good, to put pressure on many other project management tools out there.
However, one could argue that paying a few bucks every month is not an issue at all for most companies and they will instead go with popular products from 37 signals and others. After all managers want the "cool" product. And 37s is great in selling the cool things.
I think Asana's approach is a good one. I'm always for someone that is willing to challenge the orthodox approach of the status quo. Besides, from their demo it seems as though they're aiming to appeal to more than just businesses.
Yeah, funnily enough, at the beginning when he is naming all the other collaboration tools out there (including google docs) he doesn't mention Wave....
Hopefully they learned their lesson and they'll do a public release and start iterating.