Rethinking the Way We Read Online: The Birth of Matter and the Power of Intentional Reading

Rethinking the Way We Read Online: The Birth of Matter and the Power of Intentional Reading

Introduction:

In a digital age where information is readily available, the way we consume and discover content has evolved significantly. However, the current reading stack falls short in providing a personalized and diverse reading experience. This article explores the journey of Ben Springwater and Robert Mackenzie, the founders of Matter, a revolutionary platform that aims to change the way we read online. By incorporating curated recommendations from a network of readers, Matter seeks to address the fundamental questions of how and what we read.

The Limitations of Traditional Content Consumption:

One of the key reasons why previous content consumption or discovery apps failed to achieve long-term success is their reliance on RSS feeds. While RSS feeds allowed users to access content from various sources, they failed to prioritize the "who" rather than the "where." This emphasis on the source rather than the individual led to a lack of personalized and tailored reading experiences.

The Rise of Email and its Limitations:

As RSS feeds lost their popularity, email emerged as a new home for content consumption. However, email was not specifically designed for consuming long-form content and lacked mechanisms for effective content discovery and retention. It became evident that a new approach was needed to bridge the gap between content creators and readers.

The Birth of Matter:

The concept of Matter was born out of casual conversations between Ben Springwater and Robert Mackenzie during their time at Nextdoor. Both shared a passion for reading, were avid users of Pocket, and felt frustrated by the limitations of existing reading platforms. They envisioned a platform that would prioritize not only the content but also the community of readers.

The Power of Recommendations and Trust:

Matter's initial validation test involved a roundup newsletter that curated content recommendations from public thinkers on Twitter. This test highlighted the importance of trust recommendations in improving content filters and enhancing our information diets. People often save more content than they can consume, making curated recommendations invaluable in navigating the vast sea of information available online.

Building a Community of Power Readers:

To attract early adopters, Ben and Rob focused on three large online communities: Interintellect, Progress Studies, and The Long Now Foundation. By collaborating with community leaders, Matter offered members early access to valuable content and the opportunity to shape the product and recommendation engine. This approach not only fostered a sense of ownership but also ensured that the platform resonated with its target audience.

Reimagining Content Curation:

In Matter, users follow authors across the web rather than specific publications. This shift from following websites to following individuals facilitates a more personalized and diverse reading experience. Additionally, Matter's social graph of highlights allows users to discover what people they admire find interesting, further enhancing the recommendations and content discovery process.

Measuring Quality and Uncovering Hidden Gems:

Determining the quality of content can be challenging in a crowded online space. However, Matter recognizes that insights, information density, and the author's credibility can serve as proxies for high-quality pieces. The true success of Matter lies in surfacing insightful content from obscure sources that challenges users' worldviews and expands their knowledge beyond their core interests.

Actionable Advice:

1. Be Intentional: Instead of passively consuming content, ask yourself, "What do I really need to know or learn today to achieve my goals?" By being intentional about your reading choices, you can diversify your perspectives and broaden your horizons.

2. Embrace Diversity: Seek out content from a wide range of sources to avoid falling into filter bubbles. Challenge your assumptions and engage with content that challenges your existing beliefs. Embracing diversity of thought is crucial for personal growth and critical thinking.

3. Explore Curated Recommendations: Leverage platforms like Matter that prioritize curated recommendations from trusted individuals. By relying on the expertise and insights of others, you can discover hidden gems and expand your knowledge in unexpected ways.

Conclusion:

The advent of Matter represents a significant step forward in reimagining the way we read online. By prioritizing the "who" over the "where," Matter empowers readers to curate their reading experiences and discover content beyond the confines of traditional publications. Through curated recommendations and a vibrant community of power readers, Matter strives to enhance our content filters, challenge our worldviews, and foster a more intentional and diverse reading culture. So, let us embrace the power of intentional reading and embark on a journey of continuous learning and personal growth.