In this podcast, they discuss connecting concepts, information architecture, personal knowledge management, and the impact of AI. They explore the benefits of using the brain system for knowledge management and the core model in creating digital products. They also discuss tools and strategies for personal knowledge management, organizing personal book collections, the flexibility of Emacs, and the impact of large language models on information organization.
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Quick takeaways
Connecting concepts is fundamental to information architecture and personal knowledge management.
Organizing information for others to use requires defined structures and goals.
AI has the potential to compensate for deficits in structured data and assist in language processing tasks.
Deep dives
Theme 1: Connecting Concepts
Connecting concepts is fundamental to information architecture and personal knowledge management. Jerry Mikalski explained how he uses a software called the brain to connect concepts and weave them into context. Aiden Helphant modified Nicholas Lumen's zettelkasten approach to allow for more nuanced and interconnected concept notes. Alex Wright explores the tension between hierarchical systems and network systems in organizing information. There is a need to establish explicit relationships between pieces of information.
Theme 2: Information Architecture Strategies
This theme focuses on organizing information for others to use. Carrie Hain discussed content modeling as a framework for publishing digital content, highlighting the importance of designing content based on defined structures and goals. Andy Fitzgerald explained the use of headless content management systems, which allow content to be created independently of specific page layouts. Otto Holland presented the core model for creating effective digital products, emphasizing the importance of starting with the answer or hypothesis to guide the organization of information.
Theme 3: Personal Knowledge Management Strategies
This theme centers around organizing information for personal use. Maggie Appleton discussed the challenges of navigation and structure in digital gardens, where there is a need for better frameworks and principles. Carl Voigt shared how he uses Emacs, a versatile text editor, for personal knowledge management, highlighting its flexibility and the ability to build customized structures. Carl emphasized that Emacs can be tailored to suit individual needs for tasks such as document generation, to-do lists, and project management.
Theme 4: Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Organizing Information
The impact of AI in organizing information was a significant topic. AI has the potential to compensate for deficits in structured data and assist in language processing tasks. However, large language models still have limitations, such as hallucinations or fabrications of information. AI is changing the experience of searching for information by providing alternative ways to access and explore content. It is anticipated that AI will continue to evolve and impact how information is organized and accessed.
Enhancing Information Architecture for Digital Gardens
The podcast delves into the concept of digital gardens and the need for better information architecture patterns. It highlights the challenge of finding relevant content in chronological streams and advocates for a more connected and thematic approach in digital gardens. However, it recognizes the lack of infrastructure and best design practices in many digital gardens. The episode underscores the importance of information architecture in improving user experience and design thinking, going beyond popular tactical ideas. It provides insights on how better information architecture can enhance user interfaces and leverage the potential of digital gardens.
Managing Personal Knowledge with Writing and Obsidian
This episode discusses the significance of writing as a tool for thinking, challenging the conventional linear format. It explores the struggle of using output-focused tools and the realization that writing is a process of multi-dimensional thinking. The podcast introduces Obsidian, an app that acts as an extensible knowledge base while highlighting its benefits for developers and its ability to work well with other applications. Obsidian is presented as a personal Google search engine, tailored to an individual's interests and biases. The episode emphasizes the importance of finding tools that align with personal needs and the value of modular and versatile applications like Obsidian in managing personal knowledge.
This episode is a compilation of conversations from 2023. It’s not meant as a best-of collection, but an opportunity to highlight some themes that emerged during our conversations throughout the year. The episode is also an experiment, with the themes being curated partly by an AI.
