What is the Psychology of Internet World -  Algorithms?

For most of us, the playing field has now changed from offline to online. Also, this pandemic has forced most of us to shift towards online.

Psychology of the Internet

But before we venture into the online way of doing things, we must understand that there is a psychology behind everything which is happening on the digital platforms.

And that psychology is the ALGORITHM.

If we understand the psychology of the person, it is easy for us to form a relationship. Otherwise, it would be difficult.

Similarly, if we understand the algorithm of the particular online platform you plan to work on, it will be easy to reap the benefits.

Not understanding the algorithm is the reason why some people complain about online platforms as being biased. But it has more to do with the lack of understanding and than about platforms.

So, where can we find the information about the Algorithm? 

An algorithm is a brain behind the digital platforms, you cannot lay a hand on the brain, but you can understand the working of platforms from credible sources.

Facebook and Youtube are one of the top online platforms; here is the link to figure out the two's working.

Link for Youtube: 

https://creatoracademy.youtube.com/page/home

Link for Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/formedia

Keep Updated

We also need to understand that the Algorithm is something that keeps on updating. Therefore, to get the best out of the platforms, we must keep an eye on the changes.

E.g., Earlier on youtube, no. of views were considered the parameter to judge the videos. Later watch time( time spent on video) was considered, and now valid watch time ( time spent on video through valid means).

This is how youtube has updated its algorithm, and this holds for other platforms too. So if we are not aware of the changes, we will see a decrease in revenue collection.

Predict Future

Here is where things get more interesting. Can you predict what will be the next algorithm update?

If you can predict this change, you can prepare in advance. For this, you need to understand one thing; all algorithm updates do one main thing, i.e., remove loopholes.

The above example regarding youtube will help you understand it.

1. "Number of views" was a parameter to judge the videos; the more the views better it is.

Loophole - Views could be attained by hiring an external agency; the number of clicks can be attained by any means. There was no parameter if the video was seen fully or not. So it does not give a fair idea about the quality or usefulness of the videos. 

2. So they updated the algorithm and introduced watch time instead of "number of views."

Loophole - No matter it abolished the concept of views, watching time can also be attained by asking people or hiring an external agency to watch full videos.

3. Now, they have introduced "Valid watch time," which only includes watching time from organic sources.

Loophole - It is up to you to figure out, can you?

Our Take

Nowadays, everyone is on youtube, cook, Barber, Doctor, Lawyer; how can we expect everyone to make thumbnails. Thumbnail is an important factor to click on a video; a good thumbnail can generate a click. Means who are good at making thumbnail have the upper edge irrespective of the quality of the content inside. 

Don't you think it is a loophole? This is how you can also predict the next change.

I hope it brings some clarity.