Community Takes All: The Power of Social+ and Upgrading 5400 years old tech: tools for better reading

Community Takes All: The Power of Social+ and Upgrading 5400 years old tech: tools for better reading

In today's digital age, social interaction has become a driving force behind the success of consumer products. The best version of any product is the one that is intrinsically social. It's not just about having a social graph, but rather about whether the graph is unique and inseparable from the product itself. This is what truly sets a social+ product apart from the rest.

To be a social+ product, the social element needs to be critical to the overall product experience. It's not enough to have an annoying "invite a friend" pop-up that disrupts the user experience. Authentic engagement between users is the key to reaping the advantages of being social+. When a company is able to foster this kind of engagement, it sets itself apart from the competition.

A social+ product typically has both an interaction layer and a transaction layer. The interaction layer appeals to a user's emotional and cognitive side, while the transaction layer is more functional and rational. This combination creates a truly immersive and engaging experience for users, leading to their increased loyalty and satisfaction.

The success of platforms like Pinduoduo, which has gone from zero to a market cap of over $100 billion in just a few years, showcases the immense potential of social commerce. However, social+ innovation is not limited to just commerce. We have seen the emergence of social audio and the potential it holds for creating new ways of connecting and engaging with others.

In a world where social media often dominates our interactions, the concept of social+ is a reminder that true connection and community go beyond these platforms. As humans, we crave connection and community, and without it, things start to fall apart. The idea of social+ allows us to explore new ways of integrating social elements into activities we already love.

Now, let's shift gears and talk about upgrading the ancient technology of reading. Reading has remained relatively unchanged for 5400 years, despite being the most efficient way to absorb information. The average person reads at a speed of 250 words per minute (wpm), a rate that has not improved significantly over time.

However, there are tools and techniques that can help us become better readers. Mortimer Adler's book, "How to Read a Book," introduces the concept of different reading styles - inspectional reading, analytical reading, and synoptical reading. These styles allow readers to approach texts in a more strategic and efficient manner, enabling them to extract maximum value from their reading experience.

In addition to these reading styles, social reading plugins have emerged as a way to enhance the reading experience. These plugins allow readers to connect with others who are reading the same book, creating a sense of community and shared insights. Glasp curators, for example, can act as filters, guiding readers to valuable and relevant content.

The social reading trend is still in its early stages, but it is clear that it is here to stay. By combining the power of social interaction with the ancient practice of reading, we can unlock new possibilities for learning, growth, and connection.

In conclusion, the power of social+ lies in its ability to integrate social elements into various activities and experiences. Whether it's through social commerce, social audio, or social reading, the goal is to create authentic engagement and foster a sense of community. As founders and innovators, it is important to recognize the potential of social+ and find ways to incorporate it into our products and services.

Actionable Advice:

1. Identify opportunities to make your product or service more social. Look for ways to integrate social elements that enhance the overall user experience and create a sense of community.
2. Explore the emerging trends in social commerce, social audio, and social reading. Stay informed about the latest developments and consider how these trends can be leveraged to benefit your business.
3. Experiment with social reading plugins or other tools that can enhance the reading experience. Encourage your audience to connect and share insights, creating a community around your content.

By embracing the power of social+ and upgrading our reading practices, we can create a more connected and enriching experience for ourselves and others. Let's harness the power of community and social interaction to unlock new possibilities in the digital age.