Stupid Apps and Changing the World: How Technology and Stock Ownership Impact Society

Stupid Apps and Changing the World: How Technology and Stock Ownership Impact Society

In a world where technology is constantly evolving, it's easy to dismiss certain innovations as trivial or insignificant. Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, and even the Internet itself were all met with skepticism when they first entered the scene. However, these seemingly "stupid" apps have proven their worth, demonstrating that the value of a network grows exponentially with the number of users.

The concept of exponential growth can be applied to various industries, not just technology. It's a principle that holds true for stock ownership as well. When a corporation issues shares in exchange for payment, the person or entity that purchases those shares becomes a stockholder. These shares are then considered issued and outstanding. However, when a corporation grants someone the right to buy shares in the future, such as through stock options, those shares are not yet considered issued and outstanding. They do not appear on the corporation's stock ledger, and the holder does not become a stockholder until the options are exercised.

This distinction between issued and outstanding shares versus fully diluted shares is crucial for understanding stock ownership. The unallocated option pool, for example, is not considered issued and outstanding. It represents potential future ownership but does not currently impact the overall ownership structure of the company. Whether a company calculates ownership based on the issued and outstanding shares or on a fully diluted basis depends on the context for the calculation. It's important for all parties involved to clearly express their expectations and use the same method of calculation to avoid any confusion or disputes.

Now, let's circle back to the topic of stupid apps and changing the world. How do these two seemingly unrelated concepts converge? Well, there are two time-tested strategies to change the world with technology. The first is to build something that some people love but most people think is a toy. Think of how Facebook started as a platform for college students to connect and share photos. It was initially dismissed as a trivial app, but it has since transformed the way we communicate and share information globally.

The second strategy is to be hyperambitious and start a groundbreaking company, such as an electric car or rocket company. While these ventures may face substantial skepticism and doubt initially, they have the potential to disrupt entire industries and push the boundaries of what is possible. Tesla, for example, revolutionized the automotive industry with its electric vehicles, and SpaceX is transforming space exploration and colonization.

But there's a catch. One should never claim to be changing the world until they have actually done so. It's crucial to prove the value and impact of your work before making grandiose claims. Additionally, it's important to ignore the haters and work on whatever you find interesting. Internet commenters and journalists who dismiss your work as inconsequential are likely not building anything themselves. Don't let their skepticism deter you from pursuing your passion and making a difference.

So, how can we apply these concepts and insights in our own lives? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Embrace the potential of seemingly trivial innovations: Don't underestimate the power of "stupid" apps or ideas. Sometimes, the most groundbreaking innovations start small and gradually reshape the world.

• 2. Clearly communicate ownership expectations: Whether you're involved in a startup or a corporation, make sure to clearly express your expectations regarding stock ownership. Use consistent methods of calculation to avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts down the line.

• 3. Focus on your own interests and passions: Don't let the opinions of others sway you from pursuing what truly interests you. Ignore the haters and work on projects that excite you. Who knows, you might just end up changing the world.

In conclusion, stupid apps and changing the world may seem unrelated at first, but they both highlight the power of innovation and the potential for exponential growth. By embracing seemingly trivial ideas, clearly communicating ownership expectations, and staying true to our passions, we can all contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of technology and society. So, let's embrace the power of "stupid" and strive to make a positive impact on the world around us.