I agree, I prefer sketches. Everyone can do them, it's a low barrier to entry, and it saves learning another bit of software just to get your point across. Meeting in person would also allow you to get a gut reaction on who you're hiring.
Technology wise I think it's great. However, from a clarity point of view and ease of interpretation I think it needs more work as it takes a fair amount of brainpower to try and digest. It's no easy task though picturing the evolution of the web so hats off to them!
I realize it's a different language, but how about Ruby-Processing? It's a wrapper of Processing's methods but in Ruby. Here's the link https://github.com/jashkenas/ruby-processing. It's much less verbose than Java and also has a very handy watch mode which reloads your sketch every time you make a change.
I think it's a great idea. They're making electronics fun and interesting which will hopefully attract people that would otherwise run a mile! Good luck guys!
And a swing in front of his business for strategy retreats. Take note, folks.
There is a lot to be said for the creativity-inducing boredom of an analog, resource-starved existence. If you grew up in a certain time or socioeconomic situation and became a geek, you know what I am talking about.
