Upgrading 5400 Years Old Tech: Tools for Better Reading and Product Management Insights

Upgrading 5400 Years Old Tech: Tools for Better Reading and Product Management Insights

Reading, a skill invented 5400 years ago along with writing, has remained largely unchanged. Despite technological advancements, the average person still reads at a rate of 250 words per minute (wpm). However, reading remains the most efficient way to absorb information. In his meta-book "How to Read a Book," Mortimer Adler explores different reading techniques such as inspectional reading, analytical reading, and synoptical reading. These techniques provide valuable insights into how we can improve our reading skills and make the most of this ancient technology.

In the realm of product management, the role of a good product manager is often compared to that of a CEO. A good product manager possesses in-depth knowledge of the market, product, product line, and competition. They orchestrate various organizations to deliver the right product at the right time. Instead of focusing on the "how," they define the "what" and effectively communicate their vision in written formats. Additionally, good product managers prioritize revenue and customer satisfaction, constantly thinking about the story they want to be written by the press.

Interestingly, there are some commonalities between upgrading reading and excelling in product management. Both require an understanding of the context and taking responsibility for devising and executing a winning plan. Just as good readers use different reading techniques to absorb information effectively, good product managers decompose problems and create leveragable collateral to drive success.

To upgrade our reading skills, we can leverage the emerging trend of social reading. Social reading plugins, such as Glasp curators, act as filters to help us discover valuable content and engage in discussions with like-minded individuals. These plugins not only enhance the reading experience but also provide opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

In conclusion, by applying the principles of good product management to our reading habits, we can unlock new potential in this ancient technology. To further enhance our reading skills, here are three actionable advice:

1. Experiment with different reading techniques: Try incorporating inspectional reading, analytical reading, and synoptical reading into your reading routine to improve comprehension and absorption of information.

2. Embrace social reading: Explore social reading plugins and communities to connect with others, discover new content, and engage in meaningful discussions. This can enhance your overall reading experience and provide valuable insights.

3. Focus on the "what" rather than the "how": When reading, aim to extract the main ideas and key takeaways rather than getting lost in the details. This will help you retain information better and apply it in a more meaningful way.

By continuously upgrading our reading skills and adopting product management principles, we can make the most of this ancient technology and stay ahead in an information-driven world.