They wanted a board member with international experience, as they hope to expand internationally. Including, as TechCrunch put it, to "deal with foreign governments that have blocked its use".

We know Gaddafi had a crush on her, but does she provide positive PR for international users? Certainly there is a more neutral person who could accomplish the same thing.

Dropbox isn't going to put her name or face on billboards.

Her connections and knowledge of international stuffs is what Dropbox is hoping she'll bring.

You don't think there's more money in her US Government contacts?

There's money in both places to be made. They're not exclusive.

Understandable move, but in solving one problem they've simply created another.

Gravitas. If they want to move into the enterprise and international markets they need to have someone that will give mega-company CEO's a sense of comfort. At that level decisions aren't made based on technology. They're made on personal relationships.

Connections to megacorps.

Connections?

What's the upside for any external management appointment ? A large investment, that's what.

Are you saying it makes them more capable of closing a large round? They just closed $350m barely a month ago.

If they're looking for even more funding...I don't even know. The funding game is so screwed up now. Just IPO already and let the public markets enjoy some of the upside.