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Ask HN: What to do when a developer goes dark?

3 pointsby bittysdadalmost 9 years ago
Recently I wanted to upgrade a n old (but successful) project and put out a request I was looking for outside help without giving out project details. A good developer was interested and responsive. I was interested in his skillset so I sent him the project, all upgrades I was looking to do in great detail. I've tried to contact him several times since and I've not heard a peep from him. Should I be worried that he liked it and would lock me out for his own version or could it be a case of disinterest (which I would assume at least a courtesy reply of "not interested")?

3 comments

mtmailalmost 9 years ago
I assume the only point of contact is his email address? I&#x27;ve had cases were the email bounced (mailbox full) and turns out if was 17 year old living with his parents that just didn&#x27;t notice. In other bizarre case the recipient had a fatal car accident.<p>Regardless if not responding is by interest or an external factor you can only write another stronger-worded email and then move on.
brudgersalmost 9 years ago
To me, there&#x27;s little gain in making assumptions about the life circumstances of individuals one does not know intimately.<p>My advice is too move forward with other potential consultants. Perhaps consider working with the original developer again?<p>Good luck.
coolguy4almost 9 years ago
It&#x27;s safe to assume disinterest. That is the most plausible explanation.<p>If you wee worried about someone stealing your secrets you should have thought of that before you gave them away.