[tpmx]

Small software companies doing innovative things. Any business area that might need an external audit is a severe red flag in this context. That also typically means it's less fun, IMO.

A software company running a Microsoft-based email/etc system is also a red flag in this context. I mean, why...

[gtvwill]

Eh, it's in healthcare. Specifically disability support. I get a kick out of building software that makes providing support for these folks that need it. It makes their lives better, helps them achieve their goals. But it's also a largely tax payer funded industry in my country so hence the audits. Which is ok, as a tax payer myself I'd be pretty gutted if we as a country weren't auditing companies getting our hard earned tax dollar especially if they are in a sector like healthcare.

[tpmx]

Yeah, makes total sense and I wouldn't want to work there.

[mise_en_place]

All businesses require an audit of some kind. How do you think due diligence works?

[tpmx]

That's an extremely strong statement that is obviously not true, except in the most weak and generic form.

How do you think reality works?

[mise_en_place]

Yeah if you want to defraud people, sure. No auditing required. Who's being dishonest here and making false statements? (Can you see the irony???)

[tpmx]

That's a false equivalency. You seem like you've never worked with honest people.

[mise_en_place]

You have to be careful is all I’m saying, on both sides (as an investor or entrepreneur). Also, many times audit also means documenting your systems, reducing bus factor and decreasing time spent for new employees during onboarding.

[Datenstrom]

What email services would not be a red flag?

[tpmx]

Fastmail :).