Busy Bar is a macOS menu bar app that provides a visual representation of upcoming calendar events and reminders. It displays a compact, customizable bar that fills up as events approach, offering a quick glance at your schedule's density. Users can configure the bar's appearance, choose specific calendars and reminder lists to display, and adjust the timeframe it represents, from the next few hours to the entire day. The app aims to provide a passive, unobtrusive way to stay aware of upcoming commitments without constantly checking a full calendar window.
Yhangry, a YC W22 startup offering private chef services for groups, is hiring for various roles. They're seeking talented individuals passionate about food and hospitality to join their growing team. Specifically, they're looking to fill engineering, operations, sales, and marketing positions. They emphasize a collaborative, fast-paced environment and the opportunity to build a disruptive brand within the food-tech industry. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the provided links regardless of specific experience matching the listed roles, as Yhangry prioritizes passion and drive.
The Hacker News comments are primarily focused on Yhangry's business model and the challenges it faces. Several commenters question the long-term viability of the "shared dining experience" for corporate catering, citing potential logistical issues, varying dietary needs, and the inherent awkwardness of forced socialization with coworkers. Some express skepticism about the target market's willingness to pay a premium for this service, particularly during economic downturns. Others suggest alternative business models like individual meal delivery or focusing on niche markets. There's also a brief discussion on the ethics and implications of sharing compensation information. Overall, the comments express a cautious curiosity about Yhangry, acknowledging the potential while also raising significant concerns about its scalability and market fit.
Summary of Comments ( 47 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43643534
Hacker News users generally found the Busy Bar concept intriguing but impractical. Several commenters questioned the target audience, suggesting that truly busy people likely wouldn't have the time or inclination for such a bar. The lack of detail regarding the actual activities or programming was also a point of contention, with some speculating it might just be a regular bar with a catchy name. Concerns about the bar being overly stimulating or noisy, thus counterproductive to productivity or relaxation, were also raised. While some saw potential for networking, the overall sentiment leaned towards skepticism about its viability and usefulness. A few commenters humorously suggested alternative names like "Anxiety Bar" or "Procrastination Station," reflecting the perceived disconnect between the concept and the reality of being busy.
The Hacker News post for "Busy Bar" (https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43643534) has a moderate number of comments discussing various aspects of the Busy Bar concept and its implications.
Several commenters focus on the practicality and social implications of such a device. One commenter questions the effectiveness of a Busy Bar, pointing out that truly busy people often don't have the time or inclination to go to a bar, even one specifically designed for networking. They suggest that true networking happens more organically. This sentiment is echoed by others who believe that forced networking often feels artificial and unproductive. The idea that genuine connections are built through shared experiences and interests, not through designated spaces or devices, is a recurring theme.
Another thread of discussion centers around the potential for such a bar to become a haven for "wantrepreneurs" or those more interested in appearing busy than actually being productive. Some express concern that the Busy Bar could foster a culture of performative work and networking, prioritizing appearances over substance.
There are also comments discussing the potential benefits of a Busy Bar. Some suggest it could be a useful alternative to working from home, providing a social environment and opportunities for collaboration. One commenter mentions the potential for themed Busy Bars, catering to specific industries or interests, which could facilitate more focused networking.
The technical implementation of the Busy Bar's features, such as the "busy" light, also sparks discussion. Commenters debate the potential for abuse or misrepresentation of one's "busy" status. Some suggest alternative indicators of availability, like shared calendars or project statuses, to provide a more accurate reflection of someone's workload and openness to interaction.
Finally, a few comments offer humorous takes on the Busy Bar concept, imagining scenarios of people desperately trying to appear busy or using the "busy" light as a way to avoid unwanted social interactions.
In summary, the comments on Hacker News regarding the Busy Bar reflect a mixed reception. While some see potential benefits in a dedicated space for networking and coworking, others express skepticism about its practicality and potential for fostering a culture of performative busyness. The discussion highlights the complex interplay between work, social interaction, and the perception of productivity in the modern era.