Introducing Substack Notes: A Platform for Constructive Discussion and Creative Ideas

Introducing Substack Notes: A Platform for Constructive Discussion and Creative Ideas

In today's digital age, where information is readily available at our fingertips, platforms that foster meaningful conversations and creative discourse are becoming increasingly important. One such platform that has gained significant traction is Substack. With over 35 million active subscriptions and more than 2 million paid subscriptions, Substack has become a hub for writers and readers alike.

Recently, Substack introduced a new feature called Substack Notes. This feature allows writers to post short-form content and share ideas with each other and their readers. Similar to the Medium highlighter, Notes is designed to drive discovery across the platform, ultimately converting casual readers into paying subscribers. It's an interesting approach that aims to create a space for constructive discussions and the exchange of ideas.

The goal of Substack is not to create a perfectly sanitized information environment. Instead, it aims to set the conditions for constructive discussions where there is enough common ground to seek understanding while holding onto the worthwhile tension needed for great art and new ideas. By providing a platform for writers to share their thoughts and engage with their readers, Substack is fostering a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about their work.

Interestingly, Ivan Zhao, co-founder of the versatile tool Notion, shares a similar perspective on the importance of attention to detail and the value of craftsmanship. In an interview, he highlights the influence of living in Kyoto, where he witnessed the meticulousness and simplicity of everyday life. This attention to detail translates into his work, where he emphasizes the importance of hospitality and viewing software as a service. For Zhao, it's not just about providing a product but also about the support, sales, and customer success that come with it.

Both Substack and Notion recognize the significance of solving problems and meeting the needs of their users. In the case of Notion, Zhao acknowledges that many businesses rely on outdated tools like Microsoft Office. By incorporating business sense and considering personas and core use cases, Notion aims to provide a high-quality product that meets the demands of its users.

Furthermore, both platforms embrace the concept of feedback as a gift. Notion encourages a culture of direct feedback, allowing team members to learn from each other and improve their work. Similarly, Substack values feedback from its users and strives to create a product that aligns with their needs and expectations. By actively engaging with users through social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit, both Substack and Notion maintain a sense of transparency and openness.

When it comes to decision-making, both companies prioritize quality over quantity. Notion, for example, carefully considers decisions such as providing free access to partners. They understand the importance of maintaining a high level of quality and the challenges that come with changing course once a decision has been made.

In terms of company values, both Substack and Notion emphasize the importance of integrity and authenticity. They understand that trust is crucial in building a strong relationship with users and that regaining trust once it's lost can be incredibly difficult. By staying true to their values and being mindful of their users' needs, both platforms have succeeded in cultivating passionate communities that contribute to the growth and success of their respective products.

In conclusion, Substack and Notion share many common points when it comes to creating platforms that foster constructive discussions, creativity, and meaningful interactions. Based on their experiences, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Embrace feedback as a gift: Actively seek feedback from users and team members, and use it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. By listening to your audience, you can better understand their needs and make informed decisions.

• 2. Prioritize quality over quantity: Focus on delivering a high-quality product or service that meets the needs of your users. By investing time and effort into ensuring excellence, you can create a strong foundation for success.

• 3. Stay true to your values: Integrity and authenticity are key in building trust with your users. Be transparent, open, and genuine in your interactions, and strive to create a community that shares your passion and values.

By incorporating these actionable pieces of advice, you can create a platform that not only drives engagement and fosters creativity but also builds a loyal and supportive community. Whether you're a writer on Substack or a developer working on a new software tool, these principles can guide you towards success in the ever-evolving digital landscape.