The Power of Building Communities and Sharing Work in Public

The Power of Building Communities and Sharing Work in Public

Introduction:
In today's fast-paced and ever-changing world, individuals are constantly searching for meaning, identity, and a sense of community. As traditional religious institutions decline in popularity, people are turning to alternative avenues to fulfill these needs. One such avenue is online communities, where individuals can connect, share, and find fulfillment. This article explores the significance of building communities and the benefits of sharing work in public, highlighting the impact these actions can have on personal growth, productivity, and networking opportunities.

The Rise of Online Communities:
The decline of organized religion has created a void that individuals seek to fill through alternative means. Online communities have emerged as a powerful solution, providing a platform for like-minded individuals to connect and find meaning in their lives. On Deck, for instance, has successfully tapped into this demand by creating various programs that cater to specific needs within its network. By intertwining fellowship, education, and talent acquisition, On Deck has built a reputation and attracted a diverse community of individuals seeking personal and professional growth.

Re-Bundling Community with Curriculum:
Learning from the failures of the first generation of "ed-tech," On Deck has adopted a new approach by combining community and curriculum. By "re-bundling" these elements, On Deck has created a rewarding and personalized peer-to-peer education experience. This innovative approach has garnered significant success, with top fellows exhibiting strong repeat buying behavior and a high Net Promoter Score (NPS). The integration of community and curriculum has proven to be a winning combination, driving engagement and fostering a sense of belonging among participants.

Macro Waves and Tailwinds:
On Deck is riding a series of macro waves or tailwinds that are shaping the future of education and work. The decline of traditional higher education and the rise of "ed-tech 2.0" emphasize the importance of virtual curriculum and community integration. Additionally, the shift to distributed living and working, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has made location less important in hiring. Uncertainty acts as a catalyst for opportunity, creating new needs and paving the way for innovative solutions like On Deck.

The Case for Sharing Work in Public:
While there may be conflicting studies on the benefits of sharing goals and progress publicly, sharing work in public has its advantages. By becoming a documentarian of your work, you can reflect, plan, and take an iterative approach to your projects. Sharing your ideas in a transparent community allows for the connection of dots between your ideas and others', leading to potential collaborations and mentorships. The creative process thrives when ideas are shared, and the discomfort of sharing work in public diminishes over time.