"How the Internet Ate Media" and "Building Products": Exploring the Intersection of Media and Product Development

Kazuki

Hatched by Kazuki

Sep 18, 2023

4 min read

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"How the Internet Ate Media" and "Building Products": Exploring the Intersection of Media and Product Development

In today's digital age, the internet has revolutionized not only the way we consume media but also how products are developed and brought to market. This article delves into the commonalities between these two seemingly disparate topics and uncovers some interesting insights.

One of the most significant impacts of the internet on media is the rise of social media platforms like Twitter. These platforms have become the breeding ground for news and information dissemination, with important stories spreading like wildfire. However, this speed and accessibility come at a cost. The toxic behavior that thrives on Twitter can easily seep into other areas, perpetuating negativity and misinformation. It's a double-edged sword where the most influential voices and institutions are shaped by Twitter, but at the same time, they are subject to its whims.

The explosion of truth brought about by the internet has also exposed the superficiality of traditional media institutions. With multiple voices vying for attention, it becomes increasingly challenging to discern the truth from conflicting narratives. The public, empowered by social media, now plays a significant role in determining who is a legitimate journalist or news source. This shift has led to what some may call the "post-truth" era, where different truths coexist, causing confusion and uncertainty.

Interestingly, the internet's impact on media mirrors its influence on product development. Building successful products requires clear communication and a deep understanding of the problem you're trying to solve. Just as the most important news spreads quickly on Twitter, a product's purpose should be easily communicated and resonate with the target audience. If it fails to do so, it's a warning sign that something is amiss.

Moreover, both media and product development require a rigorous exploration process. When brainstorming solutions, it's essential to think broadly before delving deep. The first few ideas are often the most obvious ones, while true creativity emerges when you venture into the less explored territories of the 11th, 20th, or even 50th idea. This principle applies to both journalism and product innovation.

Another shared aspect is the need for a well-defined measurement of success. In media, metrics like reach, engagement, and credibility determine the impact and effectiveness of a news story. Similarly, in product development, success metrics must be established before launching to avoid confirmation bias. Without clear goals, interpreting results becomes subjective and potentially misleading.

Furthermore, effective communication is crucial in both media and product development. In a healthy team, every member should feel empowered to express their viewpoints, even if they go against the grain. Disagreements often arise from differences in measuring success, and it's essential to articulate concerns in the form of new proposals for success metrics.

Now, let's distill these insights into three actionable pieces of advice:

  • 1. Embrace the power of social media but beware of its pitfalls. Twitter and other platforms can amplify the reach and impact of news stories, but they can also perpetuate toxicity and misinformation. Stay vigilant and critically evaluate the information you come across.
  • 2. Prioritize a rigorous exploration process in product development. Don't settle for the first few ideas that come to mind. Push yourself and your team to generate a wide range of solutions before diving deep into the most promising ones. True innovation lies beyond the obvious.
  • 3. Foster a culture of open communication and diverse perspectives. Whether in media or product development, a healthy team environment is built on trust and the freedom to express contrarian viewpoints. Encourage dialogue and ensure that everyone's voice is heard and valued.

In conclusion, the internet has undoubtedly transformed the media landscape and the way products are developed. The rise of social media platforms has given power to the public, challenging traditional media institutions and shaping the narrative. Similarly, successful product development requires clear communication, rigorous exploration, and a deep understanding of the problem at hand. By recognizing these commonalities and applying the actionable advice provided, we can navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape and drive meaningful change. The truth is, the internet has indeed "eaten" media, but it has also opened doors to new possibilities and innovations that we can't ignore.

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