The North Star has always been the same, which for us, is about making insanely great products that really change the world in some way - enrich people's lives.
Tim CookRead
When you're an engineer, you want to analyze things a lot. But if you believe that the most important data points are people, then you have to make conclusions in relatively short order. Because you want to push the people who are doing great. And you want to either develop the people who are not or, in a worst case, they need to be somewhere else.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Engineers must focus on people over data to promote growth effectively.
In this quote, Tim Cook emphasizes the importance of prioritizing human aspects in engineering and leadership roles. While data analysis is crucial, the ability to make quick decisions about supporting and developing people is essential for fostering a productive environment and ensuring team success. This perspective advocates for a balance between technical analysis and empathetic leadership.
Themes
EngineerPeopleDataGrowthLeadership
In practice
Example use cases
In a team meeting to encourage collaboration and support among engineers.
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I don't subscribe to the view some people have in the industry that you should purposefully design products that do not last that long. I don't think it is good for anyone.
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When technological advancement can go up so exponentially, I do think there's a risk of losing sight of the fact that tech should serve humanity, not the other way around.
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Work takes on new meaning when you feel you are pointed in the right direction. Otherwise, it's just a job, and life is too short for that.
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That has always been the objective of Apple: to do things that really enrich people's lives. That you look back on and you wonder, 'How did I live without this?'
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