This strategy avoids using up an important title and also gives us a chance to evaluate the person for a permanent position. In our low-risk model, the founders must take an interest in all aspects of the company's operations and be willing to fill in for vacant positions during the incubation stage. This willingness builds flexibility and efficiency into the organization, and it also fosters equality. When you're unwilling to perform a function, your body language conveys to the organization that you don't place a high value on that function. Consultants can come in to teach you, and you can also draw upon the expertise of your Board of Directors.
Operation is simple in the beginning.
You can even toss receipts in a shoebox to keep track of expenses. At New Focus, we got by with an easy accounting software package for about six months. Most of us don't really like administrative details, and we can make better use of our time doing things other people cannot do. A capable administrator can significantly extend what you can accomplish. An accountant can help you set up the books professionally, then help the administrator maintain them over time.