The Perspectives Method (2024 edition)

Summary

The video script introduces an updated method for building and deploying applications within Notion, focusing on the 'perspectives' approach. The host shares their journey from the initial 'perspectives method' to a more refined and user-friendly version, highlighting the ease of building, deploying, and understanding the new system. The discussion covers the transition from using databases to a direct subpage approach on the main 'HQ' page, which simplifies navigation and creates a more application-like experience. The host demonstrates how to create focused views or 'perspectives' for different aspects of project management, emphasizing the flexibility and scalability of the method. They also touch on the benefits of building software tailored to one's process rather than forcing a process into pre-existing software structures. The video concludes with a call to action, inviting viewers to share their experiences and preferences regarding the perspectives method and offering support for those interested in implementing it.

Takeaways

• 📚 The video introduces a new method for building and deploying applications within Notion using 'perspectives', which is considered an improvement over previous methods.
• 🔄 The new approach does not require a database, making it more user-friendly and accessible, especially for those not familiar with database management.
• 🚀 The updated method allows for easier navigation and a more intuitive user experience by integrating applications directly into the main page as subpages.
• 🧩 The use of 'synced blocks' is highlighted as a key feature that maintains persistent navigation elements across different views or 'perspectives'.
• 📈 The speaker emphasizes the flexibility and scalability of the new method, allowing users to build and structure their Notion workspaces according to their specific needs.
• 🔍 The benefits of using databases for filtering and sorting are discussed, but the speaker suggests that for many applications, the new method without databases is more straightforward and effective.
• 🎨 Customizability is a significant aspect, as users can design their own processes and applications within Notion, rather than being constrained by pre-built software solutions.
• 📱 Mobile view considerations are mentioned, noting that the navigation can be adapted for mobile use, with content appearing first and navigation at the bottom of the page.
• 🤔 The video provides a comparison between the old and new methods, encouraging viewers to consider which approach might be best suited for their particular use case.
• 📘 The concept of 'perspectives' as a framework for building a structured yet flexible Notion workspace is emphasized, rather than a rigid, one-size-fits-all system.
• 🌟 The speaker shares personal preferences and invites viewers to engage in a dialogue about their own preferences and experiences with the new method, fostering a community of Notion users.

Q & A

What is the main benefit of using the new version of the 'perspectives' method in Notion?

The main benefit is that it's easier to build, deploy, and understand. It provides a more approachable and user-friendly way to create applications within Notion without requiring a database.

How does the new way of building in Notion using perspectives differ from the old version?

The new way does not require a database. Instead, it uses synced blocks and subpages to create a navigational element that persists across all pages, making it more intuitive and less confusing for users.

What is a 'synced block' in Notion?

A synced block in Notion is a piece of content that, when updated, will reflect changes across all instances of that block. It allows for persistent navigation and consistent structure across different pages.

Why might someone still want to use the older database version of perspectives for certain applications?

Some applications, like a perspective journal, benefit from the database model because it allows for filtering and sorting based on properties. This is useful when you need to manage data objects rather than just navigating through pages.

How does the new perspectives method help in building a project manager within Notion?

The new method allows you to build a project manager as a series of subpages within a main 'project manager' page. This provides focused views for different aspects of project management without the complexity of a database.

What is the advantage of having the navigation bar on the right side instead of the left?

Placing the navigation bar on the right side allows users to see the content first and then navigate. This can be more intuitive for English readers and helps avoid conflicts with the Notion sidebar that automatically pops out on the left.

How does the new perspectives method help in maintaining the balance between flexibility and structure?

The new method provides a framework for building applications within Notion that is both flexible and structured. It allows users to create custom views and manage their data in a way that suits their process without being locked into a rigid structure.

What is the 'perspective journal' mentioned in the script?

The perspective journal is a digital bullet journal built using Notion. It uses the database model to filter and sort different types of page spreads, providing a personalized and effective way to manage daily tasks and information.

Why does the speaker recommend learning how the new perspectives method is put together?

Understanding how the new perspectives method is constructed allows users to know how it functions, enabling them to build and customize their own applications within Notion effectively.

How can the new perspectives method be beneficial for companies and their employees?

The method can help companies empower their employees to build systems that work for them, improving productivity and efficiency. It allows employees to focus on their tasks without getting bogged down by information management.

What is the speaker's personal preference regarding the placement of navigation in software applications?

The speaker prefers having the navigation on the right side because it allows them to see the content first, which aligns with the left-to-right reading pattern and reduces clutter on the left side of the screen.