The future of software that Notion aims for, as seen by Alan Kay.

Hello, I am Alan Kay. I am the creator of object-oriented programming and proposed the concept of "Dynabook" in the 1970s. It envisioned a computer where individual users could leverage their creativity to solve problems. My belief is that computers should not just be tools, but rather "thinking partners" that enhance creativity. This time, I felt that the spirit of this concept is alive in a tool called Notion, so let’s delve into its values and concepts.

The Concept and Values of Notion

Notion is designed around a bold rethinking of modern digital tools, centered on four key values.

1. Evolution and Reconstruction of Tools

   Notion aims to refresh the traditional "work tools." Current tools like Google Docs, Slack, and Dropbox are merely digital versions of typewriters and filing cabinets, which are only slight improvements on inventions from the Industrial Revolution. However, Notion challenges itself to completely rethink and reinvent these tools from the ground up.

   
   

2. Providing an "All-in-one Workspace"

   Notion offers an "All-in-one workspace" that integrates all workflows into one platform. This allows users to manage tasks, create documents, access a database, and manage projects all in one place. It eliminates the hassle of data migration and copy-pasting between individual tools, creating a seamless working environment.

   
   

3. Flexibility Like Lego Bricks

   The biggest feature of Notion is its flexibility, which allows users to customize freely. Each function is offered as a part similar to "Lego bricks," enabling users to combine them based on their needs. This is very close to the idea of "component reuse and extensibility" that I advocated in object-oriented programming, providing users the joy of "building" their own tools.

   
   

4. Respect for the History of Computing and the Future

   The Notion team deeply resonates with the visions of pioneers such as Alan Kay, Douglas Engelbart, and Ted Nelson. They dreamed of computers becoming "tools that extend imagination." To realize that dream, Notion pursues design that incorporates not only the evolution of tools but also culture and history.

The Future Imagined by Notion

Notion is a tool very close to the ideal of the "Dynabook" I once dreamed of. Particularly, the metaphor of "Lego bricks" captures the essence of object-oriented programming in enabling users to flexibly assemble tools according to their needs. This means that users have the power to design their workflows even if they are "not programmers."

Additionally, the approach of an "All-in-one workspace" resonates with the Smalltalk environment I designed. Smalltalk aimed for all work to be done within a single unified interface. Similarly, Notion provides a cohesive interface, enabling users to work smoothly without being scattered across multiple tools.

Limitations and Criticisms of Notion

On the other hand, there are some critical opinions regarding Notion.

• “Limitations of Integrated Tools”

  Some users feel that Notion, in trying to become an "all-purpose tool," lacks deep functionality compared to specialized tools. For example, there are voices that say Notion's functions may fall short for specialized project management or advanced data analysis.

• “Difficulty of Customization”

  The flexibility of Notion also signifies a high learning cost. For beginner users, the risk of feeling lost and giving up is present as they may not know where to start.

Regarding the limitations of integrated tools, it is important that Notion does not aim to perfectly gather all functions, but instead offers the flexibility for users to add and adjust necessary functions themselves. Notion exists as a complement to specialized tools, allowing users to customize it to suit their needs.

As for the learning cost, this is a matter of "education." The support systems and community to help users learn how to use and utilize Notion are key. This aligns with the concept I aimed for in Smalltalk of creating an "environment that grows through learning."

A New Era of Software Suggested by Notion

Notion is not just a tool; it is a "platform for creation." It embodies the vision of "Dynabook" and "Smalltalk" and empowers users to solve their own problems.

Many modern digital tools have only slightly evolved inventions from the Industrial Revolution. However, Notion goes beyond that, providing an environment for users to create the future.

"The best way to predict the future is to invent it." – Alan Kay

Notion is a tool that allows users to invent the future. Let’s join this movement and create a new era together.