Does Your Startup Make Meaning? The Two Word Litmus Test

All websites are tools. But some websites are more than tools. They make meaning. That is, they define us as people.

How do you know if your website makes meaning? Easy.

Ask your users how they relate to the site. If their answer starts with "I can" then it's a tool. If their answer starts with "I am" then it defines them as a person.

"I can use Amazon to buy stuff" vs. "I am an eBayer."

"I can get news on CNN" vs. "I am a Slashdotter."

Not all websites should be designed to make meaning. Sometimes the best tool for the job is... a tool. But if you're out to make meaning, then for each proposed feature first ask yourself the following. Is this an "I Am" feature or an "I Can" feature? The results may surprise you.

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[Teenwag]

i m a TEENWAGGER