Summary
- It's challenging to obtain genuinely new information
- Platforms often obstruct this, and we have our own biases
- Therefore, it's worth intentionally seeking out literal newness
- This approach can lead to serendipity
- It's also easier to find hints for transformation
- Of course, there's a lot of noise, and catching up can be exhausting
- Engineers are not exempt from this issue, and mastering literal newness can be a strength
Background
The Impression Competition is Everywhere
On every platform, finding "new" content through various search functions is tough. This is because it's not supported, or even if it seems to be, content isn't strictly displayed in order of newest updates.
Why isn't this supported? Because it doesn't garner impressions. Whether it's YouTube, TikTok, or even this DEV Community, all platforms gain more impressions by prioritizing "more noticeable content." Thus, literal newness is often overlooked or ignored.
The Same Faces with Similar Content
Aren't we all a bit tired of it? What we see daily is mostly the same faces producing similar content. Of course, the chosen faces by platforms are often talented individuals with valuable content, but there is a distinct bias.
There's a lack of diversity. This makes it difficult for serendipity and transformation to occur, as both often lie outside of existing norms. Walking only on well-trodden paths won't lead to anything new.
Newest Literally
Newest Literally refers to displaying new content strictly in descending order of the update date.
By doing so, this method literally shows newness, making it easier for users to explore new content. Although newcomers generally have weaker content compared to veterans or well-known users, there are still hidden gems. What is useful can vary from person to person and depend on timing. Access to literal newness is highly beneficial from the perspective of serendipity and seeking transformation hints.
Example
Newest Literally is a concept I've put into words, but there has long been a country adept at it—Japan.
When it comes to blogging services, Hatena Blog and note both implement literal newness. So, even complete novices can be discovered if their content excels.
Engineers and Newest Literally
Let's get to the point.
Newest Literally is not irrelevant to us engineers.
You Might Be in a Filter Bubble
As an engineer, how do you usually gather information? It's likely filtered by authority. You read it because it's by a senior engineer, you look at it because it's a friend's statement, or you're only exposed to information from typically popular individuals or events outside the company. Of course, platform-side tweaks for impressions are in effect, influencing you without your knowing. Simply put, there's a high possibility that you are wrapped in a filter bubble.
With the concept of Newest Literally, you can pop the bubble. For example, you might filter by descending order of update frequency on systems or tools you regularly use. If you have the capability and some skill, you could even create a system that displays daily posts or knowledge in literal newness.
Naturally, just because you've gained the concept to remove bubbles, encountering useful information through literal newness is unpredictable. It depends on your skill and stance. Can you catch up by viewing an average of 30 "Newest Literally" entries added daily? It's harder and more tiring than imagined. Even senior engineers find it difficult, and personally, I feel that it's only when engineers reach a staff level that more people can manage it.
Benefits
The following benefits can be gained through literal newness:
- Increased exposure to information and perspectives you're not usually in touch with. Thus:
- Easier encounters with serendipity
- Easier to find and conceive transformation hints
- Unreported issues or problems can be discovered
- Engineers on the ground might quietly write about essential issues.
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