How Microsoft’s Human Insights Library Creates a Living Body of Knowledge: The 20% Rule for Thriving Careers

How Microsoft’s Human Insights Library Creates a Living Body of Knowledge: The 20% Rule for Thriving Careers

In today's fast-paced and ever-changing world, knowledge is power. Companies and individuals alike are constantly seeking to gain insights that can give them a competitive edge. Microsoft's Human Insights Library, also known as HITS, is a game-changer in this regard. HITS enables researchers and product teams to unlock their collective UX power by providing them with a library that traces connections between individual insights and a culture that supports its use.

HITS is not just another repository of information. It is a network of connected evidence and insight that research and data science teams across the company author and curate. Each node in this network represents an individual insight, recommendation, study report, or curated collection of high-level knowledge based on user research. The connections between these nodes represent references made by researchers and data scientists, linking insights and the evidence that supports them. This provides a holistic view of the research landscape and allows for a deeper understanding of the connections between different insights.

But having a library is not enough. Someone needs to synthesize these insights in a way that optimizes for durability and reuse across time. This is where the concept of "real-time curation" comes into play. Real-time curation involves integrating the curation process into the daily research practice. By doing so, researchers and data scientists can ensure that insights are constantly updated and refined, making them more relevant and valuable to the organization.

The 20% Rule, a concept followed by some of the most successful companies and entrepreneurs in the world, also plays a significant role in creating a thriving career. This rule suggests that individuals should spend 20% of their time on activities that involve experimentation and skill-building. Companies like 3M and Genentech have implemented their own versions of this rule, with 3M having an informal 15% Rule for decades.

The power of the 20% Rule lies in its ability to foster continuous learning and improvement. By dedicating a significant portion of their time to learning and experimentation, individuals can stay ahead of the curve and adapt to a rapidly changing world. This is especially true for high-skill knowledge workers who engage in non-routine activities.

So, how can one effectively implement the 20% Rule in their own career? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Embrace adaptive learning: Every moment in life is a learning opportunity. By becoming an adaptive learner, you can capitalize on these opportunities and continuously acquire new knowledge and skills. To become an adaptive learner, focus on T.E.E.M.Z: Time, Energy, Environment, Mindset, and Zone. Find and make time in your schedule for learning, have energy rituals that prevent burnout, select environments that facilitate learning, turn fixed mindsets into growth mindsets, and move overwhelming triggers into the learning zone.

2. Double time: Combine learning with other activities in your schedule. Look for opportunities to integrate learning into your daily routine. For example, if you have a regular exercise routine, use that time to listen to educational podcasts or audiobooks. By capitalizing on these moments, you can maximize your learning without sacrificing other important activities.

3. Deliberate learning: Practice deliberate learning, which involves focused and intentional practice. Identify specific skills or areas of knowledge that you want to improve and dedicate time each day to deliberate practice. This can involve breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and focusing on incremental improvements. By consistently practicing deliberate learning, you can make significant progress over time and become a world-class performer in your field.

In conclusion, Microsoft's Human Insights Library and the 20% Rule are two powerful concepts that can revolutionize the way we approach knowledge and career development. By utilizing HITS, companies can create a living body of knowledge that empowers their teams to make informed decisions and drive innovation. And by embracing the 20% Rule, individuals can ensure their own success and thrive in a rapidly changing world. So, let's embrace these concepts, dedicate time to learning, and unlock our full potential.