The Power of Community and the Future of Learning: On Deck's Unique Approach

The Power of Community and the Future of Learning: On Deck's Unique Approach

Introduction:

In today's fast-paced and ever-changing world, the search for meaning, identity, and community has become more important than ever. As traditional avenues, such as organized religion, decline in popularity, people are turning to alternative sources to fulfill these needs. On Deck, a community-driven platform, has recognized this shift and has successfully tapped into the demand for meaningful connections and personal growth. By combining community, curriculum, and technology, On Deck has created a unique approach to learning and networking that is revolutionizing the way we develop professionally and personally.

The On Deck Ecosystem:

On Deck operates on the principle of identifying existing demands within their network and creating specific programs to meet those needs. Their founders, angels, and talent fellowships are all interconnected, allowing for a seamless flow of knowledge and resources. This interconnectedness not only fosters collaboration but also creates a strong sense of community among members. In fact, nearly a third of On Deck's current team were hired from one of their communities, highlighting the value and impact of their programs.

Reimagining Education: The Rise of "Ed-Tech 2.0":

The first generation of online education, often referred to as "ed-tech 1.0," failed to live up to the initial hype. Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and similar platforms lacked the community aspect that is essential for effective learning. On Deck has learned from these shortcomings and has successfully "re-bundled" community with curriculum. They have built a culture and set of tools that make peer-to-peer education rewarding and personal. By combining the best of both worlds, On Deck has created a powerful learning experience that drives engagement and fosters growth.

The Power of Community:

Learning is not just about the curriculum; it is defined by who you learn with. The camaraderie and respect developed among peers play a crucial role in the learning process. On Deck understands this fundamental aspect of education and has fostered a strong sense of community within their programs. Top fellows exhibit strong "repeat buying" behavior, with many participants signing up for multiple programs. The Net Promoter Score (NPS) consistently polls around 65-70, demonstrating the high level of satisfaction and engagement among members. Furthermore, customers actively refer On Deck to others, making over 2,500 referrals in the past twelve months alone.

Macro Waves and Tailwinds:

On Deck is riding a series of macro waves that are shaping the future of work and education. The decline of traditional higher education and the rise of "ed-tech 2.0" have led to a reimagining of how we learn. With the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating the shift to distributed living and working, On Deck's virtual community becomes even more relevant. The platform embodies "Silicon Valley in the Cloud," offering individuals the opportunity to connect and collaborate regardless of their location. Uncertainty, as experienced during times of crisis, creates new needs and opportunities. On Deck has positioned itself as a catalyst for growth and development in these changing times.

The Full-Stack Approach and Utility:

On Deck's approach to building a complete, end-to-end product or service bypasses incumbents and competitors. This "full-stack" strategy allows them to have a more significant impact and create lasting value for their members. By offering utility and exceptional experiences, On Deck has become a stable, long-term competitive advantage in the market. However, achieving network-based utility requires scaling. On Deck recognizes this challenge and continues to invest in research and development, acquisitions, and distribution to expand their reach and impact.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Embrace the power of community: Seek out opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who can support and challenge you in your personal and professional growth.

• 2. Reimagine education: Look for platforms or programs that combine curriculum with a strong community aspect. Learning is not just about the content but about the relationships and experiences shared with others.

• 3. Adapt to new norms: As remote work becomes more prevalent, embrace the flexibility it offers. Location will become less important in hiring, opening up new opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Conclusion:

On Deck's unique approach to learning and networking has tapped into the fundamental human need for meaning, identity, and community. By combining curriculum with a strong sense of community, they have created a powerful platform that is revolutionizing the way we learn and connect. As we navigate the changing landscape of work and education, On Deck's innovative strategies and focus on utility position them as a leader in the market. Embracing the power of community and adapting to new norms will be key in unlocking personal and professional growth in the future.