Simple Solutions to Overlooked Problems
Find simple solutions
The author's approach to making new things involves finding simple solutions to overlooked problems, delivering them informally, and iterating rapidly. This approach has been successful in various domains, including startups, programming languages, and essays. The author argues that this approach gives one an advantage over others who try to seem legit by working on complex problems and presenting their solutions in an impressive way.
- Find simple solutions to overlooked problems
- Deliver solutions informally
- Iterate rapidly
- Focus on the real problem, not on trying to look corporate
- Launch as soon as possible to start learning from users
- Identify Overlooked ProblemsLook for problems that others have overlooked or underestimated. These problems may seem insignificant or unimportant at first, but they can have a significant impact if solved correctly.Pro tipTalk to users and customers to understand their needs and pain pointsWarningBe careful not to overlook the real problem and focus on a superficial issue instead
- Find Simple SolutionsLook for simple solutions to the identified problems. Simple solutions are often more effective and easier to implement than complex ones.Pro tipUse analogies and metaphors to find simple solutionsWarningBe careful not to oversimplify the problem and miss important details
- Deliver Solutions InformallyDeliver the solutions in an informal way, without trying to make them look impressive or corporate. This approach saves time and effort and avoids the danger of fooling oneself and others.Pro tipUse plain language and avoid jargonWarningBe careful not to underestimate the importance of presentation and communication
- Iterate RapidlyIterate rapidly and make improvements based on user feedback. This approach allows for quick learning and adaptation to changing circumstances.Pro tipUse agile development methodologiesWarningBe careful not to get stuck in an infinite loop of iteration and never launch the product
- Launch and LearnLaunch the product or solution as soon as possible and start learning from users. This approach allows for quick feedback and adaptation to changing circumstances.Pro tipUse metrics and analytics to measure user behavior and feedbackWarningBe careful not to launch too early and risk reputational damage
Viaweb was a web-based application that allowed users to create online stores. The initial reaction to Viaweb was contemptuous, but it eventually became successful and was acquired by Yahoo!
Reddit was a social news site that allowed users to share and discuss content. The initial reaction to Reddit was also contemptuous, but it eventually became massively successful.
The author developed this approach through his experiences with Arc, Viaweb, Y Combinator, and his essays. He noticed that people often initially react with contempt to his simple solutions, but they eventually prove to be successful. The author realized that this approach is a recipe for generating a contemptuous initial reaction, but it is also a key to success in the long term.