The Power of Vertical Social Networks and the Zwicky Box Method for Problem Solving and Creativity

The Power of Vertical Social Networks and the Zwicky Box Method for Problem Solving and Creativity

In today's digital landscape, there is a growing demand for more curated and meaningful connections on social platforms. Users are seeking digital experiences that align with their online and offline interests, and they are looking for platforms that enable them to share content that they can't find elsewhere. This is where vertical social networks come into play.

Vertical social networks are specialized platforms that focus on specific interests or industries. They provide users with a way to enhance their status within their existing network and offer unique tools that cater to their niche interests. Even if a platform isn't the first or only place to post a certain type of content, it can still succeed by providing the best tools and fostering a strong sense of community. Platforms like LinkedIn, Clubhouse, and Quora have capitalized on this idea, attracting users who are seeking more than just swiping and liking static content.

One of the key advantages of vertical social networks is the opportunity to build a following, both personally and professionally. Even for platforms that don't specifically target Gen Zers, the chance to establish a strong online presence and connect with like-minded individuals is a strong incentive for users to join a new network. By creating a system of record that holds all the important data related to a user's profile and interactions within the community, these platforms encourage frequent engagement and make it harder for users to churn.

The introduction of new devices also presents an opportunity for the emergence of new social networks. As new technologies expand the amount of time and ways in which we can be "present" on social products, it opens up new possibilities for connecting with others. Additionally, new devices or functionalities can enable the creation of new types of content, serving as a launching point for innovative social networks. For example, AR filters played a significant role in Snap's success, allowing the platform to expand beyond its initial user base of high school students.

In a similar vein, the Zwicky box method provides a powerful tool for problem-solving and creativity. Developed by Swiss astronomer Fritz Zwicky, this method breaks down a problem into categories, assigns values to each category, and combines these values to generate unique ideas and solutions. Zwicky believed that by thinking morphologically and breaking free from pedestrian patterns of thought, we could shape the future with bold and innovative ideas.

The Zwicky box method consists of three steps. First, you identify the categories relevant to the problem at hand. For example, if you were creating a note-taking app, your categories might include product knowledge, target demographic, revenue model, unique features, and brand message. Next, you add various values to each category, considering different aspects and possibilities. Finally, you randomly select one value from each category and link them together to create unique combinations.