Glasp Vs Readwise: Comparing Knowledge Management Tools

Glasp Vs Readwise: Comparing Knowledge Management Tools

In today's digital age, the sheer amount of information available can be overwhelming. Whether you're a student, a professional, or simply someone who enjoys learning, finding a way to effectively manage and retain knowledge is crucial. This is where knowledge management tools like Glasp and Readwise come in.

Glasp is a unique tool that describes itself as a "social web highlighter" for the desktop. It allows users to highlight web content such as articles, PDFs, Kindle books, and even YouTube videos. What sets Glasp apart is its social aspect - it creates a community where users can share their highlights and notes. This means that not only can you learn from others, but others can also learn from you. It's a great way to stay motivated, explore new interests, and gain a deeper understanding through the knowledge and opinions of others.

Readwise, on the other hand, focuses on the concept of spaced repetition. This method has been proven to be effective for remembering and retaining information. Readwise collects your highlights and notes, and then offers a digital clone of yourself. This AI-powered clone can answer any questions you have, based on the knowledge it has gathered from your own highlights and the highlights of others. It's like having a personalized virtual assistant for all your learning needs.

Both Glasp and Readwise have their own unique features and benefits. Glasp's community-based approach allows users to find content from like-minded individuals, making it a great tool for those who prefer a social aspect to their learning. On the other hand, Readwise's focus on spaced repetition ensures that you continually review and reinforce your knowledge, leading to better retention.

When it comes to user interviews and follow-up questions, Stéphanie Walter, a UX designer and mobile expert, offers a helpful cheatsheet. She suggests using open discovery questions that start with "why" or "how" instead of closed questions like "did you" or "have you." This encourages participants to provide more detailed and insightful answers.

Walter also emphasizes the importance of understanding user tasks and activities. By delving deeper into how users perform certain tasks, you can gain valuable insights into their needs and pain points. Additionally, asking participants to recall past experiences or anticipate future scenarios can provide valuable perspective, although it's important to remember that people may struggle with projecting into the future.

In terms of follow-up questions, Walter suggests various techniques. Bouncing back questions allow you to explore a topic further, while digging further questions encourage participants to provide more details. Asking for clarification, rephrasing, or even using silence can also elicit more information. Walter even suggests that the end of the interview may not be the end at all, as participants may have additional insights to share.

So, how can you effectively manage and retain knowledge using these tools and interview techniques? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Utilize Glasp or Readwise to organize and review your highlights and notes regularly. Whether you prefer the social aspect of Glasp or the spaced repetition method of Readwise, consistent review is key to retaining knowledge.

• 2. Incorporate Stéphanie Walter's user interview techniques into your learning process. By asking open discovery questions and delving deeper into user tasks and activities, you can gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

• 3. Don't be afraid to follow up with participants after an interview. Sometimes, the most valuable insights come after the initial conversation. Keep the lines of communication open and be receptive to any additional information that may arise.

In conclusion, both Glasp and Readwise offer unique approaches to knowledge management. Whether you prefer the social aspect of Glasp or the spaced repetition method of Readwise, incorporating effective interview techniques can enhance your learning experience. By staying engaged, organized, and open to new insights, you can make the most of these powerful tools and take your knowledge management to new heights.