The Evolution of Reading and the Challenges of Corporate Tech: Insights from Two Perspectives

The Evolution of Reading and the Challenges of Corporate Tech: Insights from Two Perspectives

Introduction:
Reading, a technology invented 5400 years ago, has remained largely unchanged since its inception. With an average reading speed of 250 words per minute, it continues to be the most efficient way to absorb information. However, the way we approach reading and the challenges we face in the corporate tech world have evolved over time. In this article, we will explore the concepts of upgrading reading techniques and the struggles of being part of a corporation, drawing insights from two different perspectives.

Upgrading 5400 years old tech: tools for better reading:
In his meta-book "How to Read a Book," Mortimer Adler introduces three types of reading: inspectional reading, analytical reading, and synoptical reading. These techniques provide readers with a framework to enhance their reading experience and comprehension. Additionally, the introduction of social reading plugins, such as Glasp curators, has further revolutionized the way we consume and interact with written content. The social reading trend is gaining momentum and promises to shape the future of reading.

Why did I leave Google or, why did I stay so long?
On the other end of the spectrum, we delve into the challenges faced by tech workers in corporate environments. The decision to work on a particular product often stems from the desire to get promoted, leading to a mismatch in mindset and company culture. The famous Netflix culture doc emphasizes the significance of hiring and firing employees in shaping a company's culture. However, the inability to replace employees with the right skills can hinder growth and shift the focus from customer satisfaction to corporate guidelines. This shift in focus ultimately impacts the success of both individuals and the product itself.

Insights and Actionable Advice:

1. Embrace new reading techniques: Incorporate inspectional, analytical, and synoptical reading into your reading routine to enhance comprehension and efficiency. Experiment with social reading plugins to explore new ways of interacting with written content.

2. Prioritize product success over personal promotion: In corporate tech, it is easy to get caught up in the pursuit of promotions and equity returns. However, maintaining a focus on the product and user satisfaction should be the primary goal. Regularly ask yourself, "What did I do for our users today?" to keep your priorities aligned.

3. Be aware of the challenges of corporate tech: Recognize the potential pitfalls of working in a corporate environment, such as the shift from customer focus to corporate guidelines. Understand that innovation may be limited within a corporation and consider alternative paths, such as exiting the company and building a new team or structure.

Conclusion:
As we reflect on the evolution of reading and the challenges faced in the corporate tech world, it becomes clear that there is room for improvement in both areas. By upgrading our reading techniques and prioritizing product success over personal promotion, we can navigate the changing landscape of information consumption and corporate environments more effectively. The key lies in finding a balance between embracing new technologies and staying true to the principles that drive us to serve our users.