New to LessWrong?

New Comment
4 comments, sorted by Click to highlight new comments since: Today at 6:22 AM

I guess it is important to split your project into components, and think about your competence in each of them separately.

For example, suppose I am a good software developer, and I want to create and sell a computer game. At first sight, this should be within my circle of competence. Like, maybe I usually develop applications, not games, but after learning a few extra things (e.g. how to do animation), I should be ready.

However, here are things I am not competent at, which would also be necessary:

  • painting graphics, composing music;
  • designing a game that is fun;
  • marketing.

So, the predictable outcome would be a game that is technically okay, but has ugly graphics, horrible or no music, is quite boring, and doesn't sell.

Which is a different prediction than the one I would have made at a higher level: "I am good at software development, of course I am competent to develop a piece of software".

And of course, this is not a reason to give up, but to find partners for the projects who have the missing skills.

This is a very insightful way to look at it.

You made an excellent point, a project usually requires different sets of skills.

So assessing what the project requires and comparing it with your competence would actually give you a more accurate picture or prediction.

Do you mind if I include your comment in the lesson, I really like it.

I will give you credit and link back to your profile or social account.

If that's too much, you can simply put it in the comment section of the lesson.

But either way, I want more people to see it, it's insightful.

 

Feel free to use the example in any way, credit is not needed. I am glad to help.

Thank you!