The Power of Core Actions and Extensible Note-Making

The Power of Core Actions and Extensible Note-Making

In the world of product development and growth, focusing on the right actions is essential. Simply increasing the number of users without ensuring they engage in the core action of your product is like consuming empty calories - it might feel good temporarily, but it's not beneficial in the long run. Sarah Tavel, in her article titled "Engagement Hierarchy: Core Actions," emphasizes the importance of identifying and optimizing the core actions of a product for sustainable growth.

To understand what a core action is, let's take a look at some examples. For Pinterest, the core action is pinning. Without users actively pinning content, Pinterest would cease to exist. Similarly, Twitter's core action is tweeting. These actions are the foundation and essence of these platforms. However, it's important to note that core actions are not standalone; they rely on user engagement to thrive. For instance, people wouldn't tweet on Twitter if there weren't others who read and engage with their tweets. Therefore, optimizing for the total number of users is not enough; it's crucial to ensure that the number of users completing the core action continues to grow.

In the article "Exploring the Power of Note-Making with the Co-founder of Obsidian," the concept of extensibility and customization in code editors is highlighted as a source of inspiration. The ability to customize every aspect of a code editor like Visual Studio Code led the co-founders of Obsidian to wonder why they couldn't do the same with note-taking. They wanted to create a platform where users could tailor their note-taking experience to their liking. By offering a plugin system, they aimed to provide native features that can be turned on or off based on individual needs.

During the private beta phase, Obsidian leveraged Discord as a means to distribute early alpha versions and gather direct feedback from users. As the community grew, the founders enlisted the help of dedicated community members to serve as moderators. However, they soon realized that Discord, while great for fostering a sense of community, wasn't suitable for effectively organizing and tracking discussions. To address this, they integrated a forum into their platform, which proved to be a more suitable space for in-depth discussions and keeping track of topics.

Obsidian, described as the "IDE for thought," offers users a functional and extensible front-end for note-taking. It gives individuals total control over their notes, allowing them to create a private digital garden of thoughts. In addition, Obsidian's Publish feature enables users to selectively share parts of their digital garden with the world, further expanding the possibilities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

When we examine these two articles together, we can identify a common thread: the significance of identifying and optimizing core actions while providing users with the flexibility to customize their experiences. Both Pinterest and Twitter rely on user engagement with their core actions, while Obsidian empowers users to shape their note-taking process. This emphasis on core actions and customization aligns with the idea that users should not only be drawn in by a product but also find value and satisfaction in its core functionality.

To leverage these insights in your own product development and growth strategies, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Identify your core action: Take the time to understand what the core action of your product is. What is the fundamental action that drives its purpose? Once you have identified this core action, prioritize efforts to ensure its completion and user engagement.

2. Foster customization and flexibility: Explore ways to provide users with customizable features and options. Just as code editors allow customization, consider how you can empower users to personalize their experience within your product. This flexibility can enhance user satisfaction and create a sense of ownership.

3. Create a thriving community: Building a community around your product can greatly contribute to its growth and success. Utilize platforms like Discord to gather feedback, but also consider implementing a forum or other dedicated spaces for more in-depth discussions. A thriving community can provide valuable insights, support, and foster a sense of belonging among your users.

In conclusion, understanding the power of core actions and enabling customization can be instrumental in driving growth and building a successful product. By optimizing the completion of core actions and providing users with the ability to tailor their experiences, you can create a more engaging and meaningful product. So, take the time to identify your core action, embrace customization, and cultivate a vibrant community. With these strategies in place, you can pave the way for sustainable growth and user satisfaction.