Ten Things We Know to Be True: The Founding Principles of Google and Instagram

Aug 21, 2023

5 min read

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In the fast-paced world of technology and online platforms, certain principles have emerged that guide the success of companies like Google and Instagram. These principles not only shape their products and services but also reflect their core values and philosophy. In this article, we will explore the common points between the founding principles of Google and the true story behind the rise of Instagram, and how these principles have contributed to their success.

Focus on the user and all else will follow.
Both Google and Instagram recognize the importance of putting the user at the center of their operations. Google's mission to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful reflects their commitment to user-centricity. Similarly, Instagram's founders, Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, understood the value of creating a platform that prioritizes user experience. By refining Instagram to require as few actions as possible, they ensured that users could easily share and connect through visual content.
It's best to do one thing really, really well.
Google's early success can be attributed to its laser focus on search. By perfecting the search engine and continuously improving its algorithms, Google became the go-to platform for finding information on the web. Similarly, Instagram's simplicity and emphasis on visual storytelling made it the leading platform for sharing photos and videos. By focusing on their core functionalities, both companies were able to establish themselves as leaders in their respective domains.
Fast is better than slow.
In a world where time is of the essence, speed is a crucial factor. Google's commitment to delivering fast and accurate search results has set the standard for user expectations. Instagram, too, recognized the importance of speed in capturing and sharing moments. By optimizing their platform for quick uploads and seamless browsing, Instagram ensured that users could engage with content in real-time.
Democracy on the web works.
Both Google and Instagram understand the power of user-generated content and the wisdom of crowds. Google's PageRank algorithm, which analyzes the credibility of web pages based on the links they receive from other pages, is a testament to their belief in the collective intelligence of the web. Instagram's decision to make posts public by default reflects their trust in the value of shared experiences and connections.
You don't need to be at your desk to need an answer.
Recognizing the increasing mobility of users, both Google and Instagram have adapted their platforms to be accessible on mobile devices. Google's focus on mobile-friendly search results and the development of Android, their mobile operating system, reflects their commitment to providing information wherever and whenever it is needed. Instagram, with its mobile-first approach, enables users to capture and share moments on the go.
You can make money without doing evil.
Google's famous motto, "Don't be evil," reflects their commitment to ethical business practices. They strive to provide relevant and non-intrusive advertising while maintaining the trust of their users. Similarly, Instagram's founders made a conscious decision to keep the platform ad-free initially, ensuring that user experience was not compromised. This shows that it is possible to generate revenue without sacrificing the integrity of the user experience.
There's always more information out there.
Both Google and Instagram recognize that the world is a vast repository of knowledge and experiences. Google's mission to facilitate access to information for the entire world, in every language, reflects their belief in the limitless potential of human curiosity. Instagram, too, acknowledges that there is an endless stream of visual stories waiting to be shared and discovered.
The need for information crosses all borders.
Google's global reach and commitment to providing information in multiple languages reflect their belief in the universality of knowledge. Instagram, with its visual language, transcends language barriers and allows people from different cultures to connect through shared experiences. Both companies understand that information and connections should be accessible to everyone, regardless of geographical or linguistic boundaries.
You can be serious without a suit.
Google's founders built the company around the idea that work should be challenging and fun. They created a company culture that encourages creativity and innovation, believing that great things happen when people enjoy what they do. Instagram's success, too, can be attributed to the founders' passion for their product and their ability to create a vibrant and engaging company culture.
Great just isn't good enough.
Both Google and Instagram understand that the pursuit of excellence is an ongoing process. Google's commitment to anticipating and meeting the needs of their global audience with innovative products and services sets them apart. Instagram's continuous updates and features, such as Stories and IGTV, demonstrate their determination to push the boundaries of visual storytelling.

In conclusion, the founding principles of Google and the true story behind Instagram's rise share common threads that have contributed to their success. By prioritizing the user, focusing on core functionalities, embracing mobility, upholding ethical practices, and fostering a vibrant company culture, both companies have established themselves as leaders in their respective domains. To apply these principles to your own endeavors, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

Prioritize the user experience: Understand your users' needs and preferences, and design your products or services accordingly. Simplicity and ease of use should be at the forefront of your design philosophy.
Focus on your core competencies: Identify what you do best and strive to excel in that area. By doing one thing really, really well, you can carve out a niche for yourself and establish your brand as an authority.
Embrace innovation and adaptability: Keep up with the ever-changing landscape of technology and user expectations. Continuously seek ways to improve and stay ahead of the competition by anticipating and meeting the needs of your target audience.

By incorporating these principles and advice into your own endeavors, you can set yourself on a path towards success and make a lasting impact in your chosen field.