Cosmin Rusu's Linkedin Analytics

What if AI could be your startup’s secret weapon for scaling faster? Here’s how early-stage founders are using Machine Learning to win big: Startups move fast, but what if your growth could be smarter, not just faster? Machine Learning (ML), a powerful subset of AI, is helping startups predict market shifts, personalize products at scale, and accelerate development, without needing a massive team. If you're a founder, this is your blueprint for leveraging ML at every stage of your startup: 🚀 Market Research on Autopilot AI tools can spot trends, analyze competitors, and surface hidden customer needs faster than any intern or survey. 🛠️ MVP Development That Actually Hits AI can generate code, improve quality, and prioritize features based on user data—helping you launch faster with more confidence. 📈 Scaling Without Breaking Things ML automates what slows you down: demand forecasting, customer segmentation, personalization, and even operations. 💡 Why it works: Faster iteration → Learn and adapt in real time Predictive power → Know what users want before they ask Smarter decisions → Backed by real data, not just gut feeling If you're not thinking about AI yet, your competitors definitely are. If you’re building something and thinking about AI, drop a comment or message me. #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

The beauty of running a software agency? No two projects are ever the same. Last Monday morning, I grabbed my coffee, ready to tackle the week, when we realized we were diving into a whirlwind of diverse projects. First up, the embroidery project for a 3rd Party Fulfillment. It was a colorful challenge that required our team to weave creativity with precision. Seeing a software solution come to life in something so tangible was oddly satisfying. Next, we were deep into gathering requirements for an Electron project. A big logistics company needed something robust, and we were more than ready to deliver. We got to work, crafting a solution that streamlined their operations and boosted efficiency. The thrill of taking complex challenges and turning them into seamless solutions is what drives us. Startups are all about embracing variety and learning on the go. And it's this dynamic nature that keeps us on our toes and pushes us to innovate. For entrepreneurs and small companies looking to scale, this is the heartbeat of custom software development. The ability to adapt, learn, and deliver tailored solutions is our forte. Every project is a new chapter, a fresh opportunity to grow. For developers out there, whether you're just starting or seasoned in your craft, remember that every project, no matter how small or big, adds to your story, so you should embrace the variety. Startup life isn't just about building software, but rather about building experiences, relationships, and expertise. Now, over to you: What's the most unexpected project you've worked on recently? Drop your stories below. #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

When your competitors try to copy you, it's a compliment. But when they infiltrate your system, it becomes a security test. In one of our platform investigations, we uncovered a subtle but critical pattern: Competitors weren't just building rival solutions, they were using our platform to study, imitate, and probe. Here’s what we found (and what we acted on): 🔹 Multiple suspicious user accounts tied to a competing organization. 🔹 Patterns of minimal real engagement (fake signups, abandoned applications). 🔹 Attempts to access operational flows, credentialing processes, and client-side data. How we responded technically: ✔️ Strengthened credential verification flows (more points of friction for fake users). ✔️ Enhanced user activity monitoring (behavioral analysis over time, not just event logs). ✔️ Improved anomaly detection (low interaction + high exploration = flagged behavior). ✔️ Reinforced reporting with LogRocket, Sentry, and Metabase for real-time incident tracking. The big lesson is that building a tech platform isn't just about features and UX. It's also about protecting your ecosystem - your users, your clients, your data, and your strategy. Great tech teams think like builders - but also like guardians. #SoftwareDevelopment #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

‘Zoom fatigue is unavoidable’ - I respectfully disagree. Here are strategies I use to survive marathon meeting days. As someone who's spent countless hours in virtual meetings, I’ve found practical ways to remain energized and engaged. Here are some of the strategies I rely on: 🔹 Set clear boundaries. → Define start and stop times for meetings. ↳ Respect your own schedule and make sure others do too. 🔹 Turn off self-view. → Staring at yourself can be distracting and exhausting. ↳ Focus on the conversation instead. 🔹 Leverage asynchronous communication. → Not everything needs to be discussed live. ↳ Use emails or shared documents for updates that don’t require immediate feedback. 🔹 Optimize your environment. → Ensure good lighting and a comfortable chair. ↳ These small changes can significantly impact your comfort level. 🔹 Stay hydrated. → Keep a bottle of water at your desk. ↳ Hydration helps maintain focus and energy levels. By integrating these habits into my daily routine, I’ve managed to keep Zoom fatigue at bay. What strategies help you stay focused during long virtual meetings? #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

If you're not a 10x engineer, you're replaceable. AI won't take all dev jobs - just the ones that bring average output. The tech world is buzzing with talk of AI replacing developers. But here's the real scoop: AI won't take all dev jobs - just the ones that bring average output. What does that mean for you if you're a junior engineer? Listen up. The future is bright for those who innovate, not those who stagnate. Here are some thoughts to consider: 🔹 Innovate, Don't Imitate ↳ Focus on creating unique solutions, not following the crowd. 🔹 Embrace Continuous Learning ↳ The tech landscape is evolving. Stay ahead with new skills. 🔹 Specialize in Problem Solving ↳ AI can code, but it can't dream. Human creativity is irreplaceable. 🔹 Collaborate Effectively ↳ Teamwork enhances output beyond what a single AI can achieve. 🔹 Develop Soft Skills ↳ Communication and empathy are your superpowers. Junior engineers are the most vulnerable. But vulnerability could just be an opportunity in disguise. It's your chance to grow, adapt, and thrive. Remember, AI is a tool, not a replacement; it can assist, but not outperform human ingenuity. So, are you ready to embrace the future? Are you ready for the next wave of tech innovation? #SoftwareDevelopment #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

Tests slow you down and don’t always add value. Let me tell you why skipping tests is the smarter move: Before you raise your pitchforks, hear me out. In software development, testing is often hailed as the sacred ritual ensuring code quality and reliability. But is it really worth the time and resources? Let's dig deeper. 🔹 Time is money. As entrepreneurs and small companies, every second counts. The process of writing, maintaining, and running tests is incredibly time-consuming. Imagine what else you could be doing with that time. 🔹 False sense of security. Tests can create an illusion of safety when in reality, they often miss edge cases or unexpected user behaviors. You might think your code is bulletproof, but is it? 🔹 Innovation over perfection. In a fast-paced market, being first can be more rewarding than being perfect. Focusing on rapid iterations and learning from real-world use can be more beneficial than spending hours on tests. 🔹 Real-world feedback trumps synthetic tests. Your users are the best testers you can have. Their feedback is invaluable and directly reflects how your software performs in the wild. Now, I'm not saying that tests are entirely worthless. They have their place, especially in large-scale systems with critical operations. But for startups and small companies, the focus should be on agility and learning. Embrace the chaos, launch fast, and iterate based on real-world insights. After all, building something meaningful is about creating value, not just perfect code. What's your take? #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

A little gardening, a little organizing, and a lot of productivity. Here’s why my weekends are my secret boosters. Let me explain why these weekend activities are my game-changer. First, let's talk gardening. There's something almost meditative about tending to plants. It's a break from the digital world, and an awesome chance to unplug and just be. Those moments kind of help ideas flow, and new perspectives can sprout up like the plants themselves. I've actually had some project breakthroughs while pulling weeds. Next comes the organizing. I dedicate time to arrange my workspace and digital files because clearing out the clutter helps clear out the mental cobwebs. I prioritize tasks, set goals, and make sure everything I need is ready for the week ahead. This simple act of preparation transforms Monday from a monster into a manageable companion. Lastly, there's the productivity that follows. By Sunday night, I've planted seeds in both my garden and my mind, and Monday morning arrives with a sense of accomplishment, not dread. I'm energized, focused, and ready to tackle the week. So, this routine is not about keeping busy, but actually about creating a space where innovation can thrive. Consider finding your version of gardening. You'll be surprised how it fuels your professional life. What’s your secret weekend routine? Share your thoughts! #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

University gave me a CS degree... But the real coding skills came from my own experience. Your university degree in Computer Science won’t prepare you for real-world coding, and I kind of I learned that the hard way. Here’s what they don’t teach you: 🔹 Debugging Real Problems → Textbook examples are clean and predictable, but real-world code is messy and full of surprises. 🔹 Collaborating Across Teams → In school, teamwork might mean splitting a project, but in the industry, it’s about merging minds, not just code. 🔹 Handling the Unknown → In class, problems have defined answers; in the field, you often face challenges with no clear solutions. 🔹 Balancing Speed and Quality → University projects have deadlines, but they rarely simulate the pressure of balancing speed with quality under client expectations. I’ve worked with giants and startups that are just getting their feet wet. And I’ve realized one thing: The most effective developers are those who learn by doing, not just by studying. The code you write in a real-world team is a different beast than the code you write in isolation. Our journey at Duty Ventures has been about bridging that gap. We help entrepreneurs and small companies take their ideas from concept to reality. What lessons have you learned outside the classroom? Feel free to share your experiences below. #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

Work from home doesn’t have to mean working inside all day. My latest habit that’s helped me unwind, reset, and come back stronger: 5 years ago, I made a decision that changed the way I work. I took the leap into remote work. At first, it felt like stepping into the unknown. The comfort of my home sounded appealing, but the idea of mixing work with personal space was daunting. Fast forward to today, and I can't imagine it any other way. Working from home has its perks, and one of my recent discoveries is taking walks in the forest nearby. Why? Because it’s more than just exercise. It’s a mental reset. Here's what these walks have done for me: 🔹 Reflect → As I walk, I reflect on the day, the projects I’m working on, and even new ideas pop up. 🔹 Unwind → The chirping of birds, and the fresh air create an environment where stress just fades away. 🔹 Recharge → Nature has a way of refreshing the mind and body, preparing me to tackle the next task with renewed energy. 🔹 Connect → Surprisingly, these walks often inspire new ways to connect with my team and clients, as nature fosters creativity. Working from home doesn’t have to mean working inside all day. So, I encourage you to step outside, embrace the outdoors, and find your own way to reset. Take a moment each day to unwind. How do you unwind during your workday? Let me know in the comments! #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

Press a single button. Boom - Offer sent and CRM updated. This is what we did for a recent client. I was sitting in a meeting with one of our logistics clients, and they were expressing a common frustration. They were drowning in emails and struggling to keep their CRM updated. This is where their eyes lit up with hope when they asked if we could help. That was the spark we needed, and it hit us. What if we could create something that would allow them to update their CRM with just a single click? Fast forward, a few weeks later, we’ve finalized an Outlook Add-in Plugin for them. Here’s how it works: → You draft your email offer in Outlook. → You hit send with a single button push → And all that information is recorded into your CRM/ERM. No more manual entries. No more drowned inboxes. Just seamless integration. The excitement of our client was all the reward we needed. This isn’t just about the productivity boost. It’s actually more about giving entrepreneurs and small companies the tools they need to focus on what truly matters: growing their business. We believe in innovation that simplifies. What process could you simplify to focus more on growth? #SoftwareDevelopment #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

Bootcamps promise speed. But depth? That’s DIY. I’ve witnessed junior devs outlearning bootcamp graduates in just 6 months. How? YouTube and a solid plan. Here’s the thing: Bootcamps promise quick results. They market themselves as the fast track to a coding career. But in reality, the learning stops as soon as the course ends. You get a certificate, maybe some job assistance, but then what? The truth is, coding is a journey, not a destination. It’s mostly about continuous learning, adapting, and evolving. And self-taught developers often end up with more depth and better long-term skills. Why? Because self-teaching encourages exploration. → You learn at your own pace. → You dive deep into topics that interest you. → You build projects that solve real problems. Try to see things this way: Bootcamps give you a map, where self-teaching gives you the compass. With a map, you follow a predefined path, but with a compass, you explore the terrain, learn to navigate obstacles, and truly understand the landscape. And I guess you know that in coding, being adaptable is key, as new languages, frameworks, and tools emerge constantly. If you rely solely on bootcamp knowledge, you might find yourself outdated quickly. But if you’ve taught yourself how to learn, you’re always ready to adapt. To all aspiring developers out there: Consider the DIY approach. Invest your time in resources like online tutorials, open-source projects, and community forums. Seek mentorship from experienced developers. And most importantly, build projects that excite you, that challenge you, that push you to learn more. What’s your take on this? Is the DIY route the way forward? #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

Are you not using version control? You might just be one command away from losing it all. And trust me, that's not a risk worth taking. Let’s see why version control is non-negotiable for developers, and how you can get started with Git. Version control is the safety net for your code. Imagine you’re working on a massive project, things are going well, but then you hit a bug. It is so stubborn that it feels like it’s mocking you. Without version control, you'd be stuck, but with it, you can easily revert back to a stable version of your code. It's peace of mind, in code form. Here's why understanding version control is crucial: ✔️ Collaboration Made Easy → Multiple developers can work seamlessly on the same project. → No more overwriting each other’s work. ✔️ History Tracking → Every change is recorded. → It makes bug tracking a breeze. → You can see who made changes and why. ✔️ Backup and Restore → Your code is always safe. → Roll back to previous versions if things go south. ✔️ Branch Management → Experiment without fear. → Branch off, test new features, merge back if successful. Now, let's get you started with Git, the most popular version control system: 🔹 Track Changes → Use git add . to stage changes. → Commit them with git commit m Your commit message. 🔹 Branch Like a Pro → Git branch new feature to start a new branch. → Switch with git checkout new feature. 🔹 Collaborate with Others → Use platforms like GitHub or GitLab. → Push your code with git push. → Pull updates with git pull. Starting with version control might feel awkward at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. Your code deserves a safety net. Give it one. What's your version control horror story? Share in the comments! #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

Happy Easter to everyone celebrating around the world! I hope you're soaking in beautiful moments with your family and loved ones. Use this time to recharge, relax and come back stronger with beautiful memories and a full battery. #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

Your next growth hack might not be code. It might be a conversation. Strategic partnerships can be the secret to scaling your startup. But how do you identify and cultivate these golden relationships? Here are some quick tips to get you started: 🔹 Understand Your Needs 🔹 → What gaps do you need to fill? ↳ Identify areas where a partner can add value. 🔹 Research Potential Partners 🔹 → Look beyond the big names. ↳ Emerging companies may have innovative solutions. 🔹 Leverage Your Network 🔹 → Your existing connections can lead to introductions. ↳ Don't underestimate the power of a warm referral. 🔹 Be Willing to Compromise 🔹 → Flexibility is key. ↳ Not every need will align perfectly. 🔹 Establish Mutual Benefits 🔹 → What do both parties stand to gain? ↳ Ensure the partnership is a win-win. Strategic partnerships help you build relationships, and in those relationships, you might find more than just growth. Which step will you take today to start building your next strategic partnership? #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

Not all challenges happen behind a laptop. After two years of effort, I officially became a licensed hunter in Romania. From the bustling tech hubs to the serene forests of Romania, this is a pretty cool journey. This helped me step out of my comfort zone and challenge myself in ways that coding never could. Two weeks ago was the first real deal as I went foxhunting. And the experience was exhilarating, to say the least. It was a stark contrast to the digital landscapes I'm used to navigating. But this journey taught me a few things: → Challenges, whether in tech or nature, require patience and persistence. → Stepping outside your usual environment can provide fresh perspectives. → Finding a balance between work and hobbies can lead to unexpected growth. Explore, breathe, and discover new passions. After all, the most significant innovations often come from the most unexpected places. What hobby or adventure has taken you out of your comfort zone? #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

When your AWS bill looks like an engineer’s salary... You know it’s time to find some creative solutions. Two weeks ago, I sat down with our longtime client, Next Level Video. They were facing a new reality after being acquired and needed to optimize their tech expenses. The AWS costs had ballooned to the point where it resembled a monthly salary for one of our software engineers. Ouch. As a company that thrives on helping entrepreneurs and startups launch efficiently, we knew we had to tackle this challenge head-on. Here’s how we approached it: We analyzed the patterns and usage of their services. ↳ A lot of traffic may not be reaching its intended audience due to inefficient routing. We pinpointed where AWS was being overutilized. ↳ Some servers may be running 24/7 without any need. We set up tools to continuously monitor usage ↳ It’s important to ensure that they only pay for what’s necessary. ✔️ The result? A strategic plan that didn’t just promise savings but also enhanced performance. ⭐️ The lesson? Sometimes, the solution to a bloated tech bill isn’t just cutting costs, but optimizing them. It’s about finding smarter ways to work with what you have. This is what scaling efficiently looks like. If your tech expenses are spiraling out of control, maybe it’s time to think outside the box. What creative solutions have you found to tackle similar challenges? Let’s share some ideas! #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

Networking isn’t just ‘nice to have’ - it’s essential. Early connections fueled my first projects, hires, and long-term growth. When I launched Duty Ventures, I quickly realized this truth. As a fresh startup founder, resources were limited, and the pressure was immense. So, early on, I started reaching out to everyone I could. From old colleagues to new acquaintances in local meetups. Each connection was a potential door to opportunity. But it was more than that. → It was about genuine interest. → It was about being present and available. → It was about offering help without expecting anything in return. The first major breakthrough came when I started working with a startup looking for a custom software solution. That was the beginning of a ripple effect, and with every successful project, a new door opened. Recommendations flowed, and soon, I was working with clients like Colgate and Spotify. But it didn’t stop there. The network I nurtured became a support system that guided me through the challenges of a growing business. And as projects increased, I realized I needed help. So, I got to hire my first collaborators. Some High School and Uni friends. Together we got to build some awesome projects, that shaped our growth at Duty Ventures and helped us become what we are today. Today, networking continues to be a cornerstone. It fuels our growth and keeps us connected. What’s your networking story? Share in the comments below. #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

Remote work or in-office: Which one wins for developers and startups? Let’s break down the pros, cons, and what’s actually working in 2025. Listen to your team and adapt. The best setup is the one that fits your unique needs and goals. What’s working for your team in 2025? Share your thoughts below! #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

I like to hire junior devs with no experience. Here's why: A few years ago, I found myself on a hiring spree. I needed fresh talent for Duty Ventures. But I wasn't looking for the usual suspects, I was on the lookout for something different. I decided to dive deep into the pool of fresh graduates. Young, eager, and full of potential. People often ask, Why hire someone with no experience? And here's my answer: ⭐️ Fresh Perspectives Junior developers bring a fresh outlook to the table. Unburdened by rigid industry norms, they often propose creative ideas and alternative approaches that more experienced professionals might overlook. ⭐️ Eagerness to Learn Their drive is unmatched. Junior devs are hungry to grow, prove their worth, and make an impact. This eagerness translates into high energy and a willingness to take on challenges - an enthusiasm that uplifts the entire team. ⭐️ Adaptability In a fast-paced tech environment, adaptability is gold, and junior developers have it in spades. They learn quickly, pivot easily, and evolve with the needs of the company. This flexibility makes them ideal for dynamic, ever-changing projects. ⭐️ Tech-Savvy Today’s junior devs are digital natives. They’ve grown up surrounded by technology, making their understanding of software and devices intuitive. This built-in tech fluency allows them to pick up new tools and languages with ease. To all the entrepreneurs and companies out there, my advice would be to not overlook the juniors because they lack experience. See them for their potential. After all, every expert was once a beginner. What's your take? Would you hire someone with no experience? #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.

The loudest devs aren’t always the best. But they’re the ones getting hired. Why? Because they know how to stand out with a personal brand. Here's how you can carve out your unique space: 🔹 Identify Your Unique Value → What makes you different? Is it your coding style, your problem-solving skills, or your ability to work seamlessly in a team? Pinpoint your strengths and let them shine. 🔹 Share Your Story → People connect with stories. Share your journey, your challenges, and your triumphs. Don’t be afraid to show your human side. 🔹 Showcase Your Work → Your projects are your portfolio. Create a personal website or GitHub repository to display your work. Let people see what you can do. 🔹 Be Consistent → Consistency builds trust. Regularly post content, whether it’s a blog, a video, or a simple update. Keep your audience engaged. While you might not always be the loudest, you can be the one who stands out for all the right reasons. What's your personal branding strategy? Share it below! #Engineering #Startups #Entrepreneur #Technology #DutyVentures — 👍 Like and ♻️ Repost if you found this post interesting! 💻 Follow me for daily software development-related posts.