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My journey to discover the Youtube algorithm

Welcome back to Continuous Improvement, where we dive deep into personal growth and learning through technology and creativity. I'm your host, Victor Leung, and today, I want to share a very personal story with you—a journey into content creation on YouTube, the trials, the errors, and the eventual insights that led to unexpected success.

Last Christmas, I found myself with some free time and a growing curiosity about YouTube's elusive algorithm—how does one drive views, build an audience, and create meaningful content that also happens to earn revenue? My adventure in this digital landscape was nothing short of a roller coaster.

It all started with me creating videos, pouring my heart and soul into each frame, each line of dialogue. But despite the effort, the response was... well, disheartening. Views were scarce, and audience growth was virtually nonexistent. It was a classic creator's dilemma, but it sparked a crucial realization: I needed to pivot.

Taking a leaf out of YouTube’s own book—yes, the platform itself had pivoted from its original concept based on user feedback—I began to reshape my strategy. Instead of crafting videos solely based on my interests, I started focusing on what the audience seemed to want, using every video as a data point to gather insights into viewer preferences and behaviors.

This data-driven approach was eye-opening. It wasn't just about analytics; it was about understanding human engagement. People are drawn to stories, to emotions, to connections. I began to craft content that resonated, that spoke to the viewer on the other side of the screen. My channel shifted from being ego-centric to audience-centric.

One of the pivotal moments came with a video titled "AI-generated Jazz Music with Deep Learning." Utilizing a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) Network, this video not only showcased fascinating technology but also struck a chord with the audience’s love for innovative, accessible content. The feedback was phenomenal, and it taught me the power of aligning tech with human interest.

From then on, it was all about refining the process—analyzing, adjusting, and continually evolving. This cycle became the backbone of my growth on YouTube. And today, I'm proud to say that the channel has not just survived but thrived, with viewership continuing to grow.

So, what’s the takeaway from all this? If you're diving into YouTube or any platform, really, remember: content is king, but understanding your audience is queen. Become a master of storytelling, sure, but also a diligent student of data. Your efforts to blend creativity with analytics are what will set you apart in the crowded digital arena.

Thank you for joining me on this personal journey today on Continuous Improvement. If you’ve enjoyed the episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share. Your support means the world. I’m Victor Leung, and I’ll be back soon with more stories, tips, and tactics to help you navigate your path to success. Until next time, keep learning, keep creating, and keep engaging!

我的旅程去發現Youtube的演算法

去年聖誕節假期期間，我在家中無聊，於是做了一些有關創作內容的研究。我對於揭開 YouTube 上如何驅動觀看數、建立觀眾群和增加收益流的秘密演算法很好奇。這個旅程充滿了試驗和錯誤，非常辛苦，但也是發現和學習的道路。

我開始通過創作影片，並將時間和努力投入到每一部影片中。你可以點擊這個鏈接看到它：必去香港前14家餐廳 | 美食家指南。然而，起初的觀看數量接近零，觀眾的增長也停滯不前。那時我意識到，減少在無產出的策略上投入時間，並停止浪費時間在影片編輯上是關鍵。這個頓悟導致了第一次重大改變：我開始關注觀眾想要的，而不只是關注個人的興趣。

我從 YouTube 自身的創始故事中得到靈感，我理解到成功通常伴隨著一系列的失敗和調整。YouTube 本身由於用戶反饋和市場需求，原來的概念經過改變。這個範例對我來說是一個希望和策略的指南。

為了真正掌握平台的力量，我變成了一個數據的學生。這意味著我對內容創作的整個方法進行改變。每一部影片現在都是一個數據點，提供了有關觀眾偏好和行為的寶貴見解。我進行基於數據的決策，但總是優化人類的參與。畢竟，人們回應的是故事，而不僅僅是事實和數字。

我開始創作與觀眾的情感和興趣相呼應的影片。內容不再僅僅是為了自我表達，而是為了那些熱切等待每次上傳的觀眾。這是從以自我為中心到以觀眾為中心的內容的轉變。

我的一部觀看次數最多的影片是用深度學習，具有長短期記憶（LSTM）網絡來創作爵士樂：

我分析了觀眾的行為、參與率和反饋，並相應地調整內容策略。這個嘗試、失敗、分析、調整的循環成為我旅程的支柱。

慢慢地，我們的努力得到了回報。觀看數飛漲，觀眾人數也增加。到目前為止，觀看次數已成長到3800次：

我的頻道成了研究YouTube演算法的一個實驗場所，理解並滿足人的行為和偏好。

通過這個旅程，我了解到在YouTube上的成功不僅僅關於創造力，更是要理解並適應不斷變化的數位媒體景觀。是否能夠解鎖Youtube演算法，我們需要成為故事講的大師（內容為王）和數據的學生（數據為后）。如果你喜歡我的Youtube頻道，請點擊喜歡，訂閱並分享 :)

How to Make the Most of Your Time for Personal and Professional Development

In today's fast-paced world, time is a precious commodity. It's important to use it wisely, not just for professional advancement but for personal growth as well. Here are some productive ways to utilize your time for both personal and professional development:

1. Skill Enhancement

Use this period to learn new skills or enhance existing ones. This could involve enrolling in online courses, attending workshops, or obtaining certifications relevant to your field. The digital era offers abundant resources, so take advantage of them.

2. Networking

Engage in networking activities by attending industry events, meetups, or conferences. Building connections with other professionals can open new opportunities and keep you abreast of industry trends.

3. Personal Projects

Invest time in personal projects or hobbies that might complement your professional skills. This not only allows you to explore new interests but also helps in building a versatile portfolio.

4. Research and Reading

Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in your field. Regularly read books, industry journals, or online articles. This habit can bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to your work.

5. Mentoring and Collaboration

Consider mentoring junior colleagues or collaborating on internal projects. This not only builds leadership skills but also keeps you connected with your team.

6. Physical and Mental Health

Focus on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Regular exercise, meditation, and pursuing hobbies are crucial for mental and physical well-being.

7. Internal Contributions

Contribute to internal company initiatives, such as training programs, recruitment efforts, or organizing company events. This shows initiative and commitment to your organization.

8. Preparing for Upcoming Projects

If you're aware of your next project, start preparing early. Research the client, industry, or technologies involved to stay ahead.

9. Organizational Involvement

Get involved in various aspects of your organization. Participating in diversity and inclusion initiatives or contributing to the company newsletter can be enriching experiences.

10. Setting Goals

Take time to reflect on your career path and set realistic goals. Consider where you want to be in the next few years and plan actionable steps to achieve these objectives.

Conclusion

In essence, the key to making the most of your time lies in balancing professional development with personal growth. By enhancing skills, networking, engaging in personal projects, and focusing on health and organizational involvement, you create a well-rounded routine that not only advances your career but also enriches your personal life. Remember, every moment counts, so use it to grow and evolve both personally and professionally.

How to Make the Most of Your Time for Personal and Professional Development

Welcome back to Continuous Improvement, where we delve into strategies that empower our professional journeys and enrich our personal lives. I’m your host, Victor Leung, and today we're discussing how to maximize our most valuable asset—time. In our fast-paced world, using time wisely is essential for both professional advancement and personal growth. Let’s dive into ten productive ways to utilize your time effectively.

1. Skill Enhancement. This is about pushing your boundaries. Enroll in online courses, attend workshops, or obtain certifications that are relevant to your field. The digital era has made learning more accessible than ever, so let’s make the most of these opportunities.

2. Networking. Whether it’s industry events, meetups, or conferences, building connections is crucial. Networking can open new doors and keep you updated on industry trends, so don’t underestimate the power of a good professional network.

3. Personal Projects. Invest time in personal projects or hobbies that might also complement your professional skills. This can lead to a more versatile portfolio and gives you a creative outlet outside your regular work.

4. Research and Reading. Stay sharp by keeping up with the latest trends and advancements in your field. Regular reading can bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that you can bring into your daily work.

5. Mentoring and Collaboration. Consider mentoring junior colleagues or collaborating on projects within your team. This not only enhances your leadership skills but also strengthens team dynamics.

6. Physical and Mental Health. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is non-negotiable. Incorporate regular exercise, meditation, and hobbies into your routine to ensure you stay physically and mentally fit.

7. Internal Contributions. Show your commitment to your organization by contributing to internal initiatives, like training programs or company events. This demonstrates initiative and can greatly enhance your visibility within the company.

8. Preparing for Upcoming Projects. If you know what’s next on your project docket, start preparing early. Understanding the client, the industry, or the technologies involved can give you a significant advantage.

9. Organizational Involvement. Get involved in different aspects of your organization. Participate in diversity and inclusion initiatives or contribute to the company newsletter. These activities can be incredibly enriching.

10. Setting Goals. Reflect on your career path and set realistic goals. Where do you want to be in the next few years? Define actionable steps to reach these objectives.

In essence, the key to making the most of your time lies in balancing professional development with personal growth. Each moment offers an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to improve. Remember, how you use your time can define the trajectory of your career and the quality of your life.

Thank you for joining me on Continuous Improvement. I'm Victor Leung, and I look forward to our next exploration into ways we can all evolve and excel. Until then, keep learning, keep growing, and remember—every moment counts.

如何充分利用您的時間進行個人和專業發展

在當今快節奏的世界中，時間是寶貴的商品。使用時間的方式不僅影響專業進步，也對個人成長至關重要。以下是一些有效利用您的時間進行個人和專業發展的方式：

1. 技能增強

利用這段時間學習新技能或加強現有技能。可能涉及到參加在線課程，參加研討會，或獲得與您領域相關的認證。 在數字時代裡擁有豐富的资源，應充分利用。

2. 建立人脈

透過參加行業活動，社群聚會，或會議進行人脈活動。與其他專業人士建立關係可能帶來新的機會，讓你掌握行業趨勢。

3. 個人項目

投資時間於個人項目或嗜好，這可能補充您的專業技能。這不僅可以讓您探索新的興趣，也有助於建立多面向的個人作品組合。

4. 研究與閱讀

保持了解您所在領域最新的趨勢和進步。定期閱讀書籍，行業期刊，或在線文章。這種習慣可以為您的工作帶來新的觀點和創新的想法。

5. 指導和協作

考慮指導初級同事或進行內部專案的協作。這不僅可以建立領導技巧，還可以讓您與團隊保持聯繫。

6. 身體和精神健康

專注於維護健康的工作與生活平衡。定期運動，冥想，和追求嗜好對精神和身體健康至關重要。

7. 內部貢獻

參與內部公司活動，如培訓計劃，招聘工作，或組織公司活動。這顯示出您對組織的主動性和承諾。

8. 為即將到來的項目做好準備

如果您知道接下來的專案，早點開始準備。研究客戶，行業或相關技術，以保持領先。

9. 組織參與

參與組織的各種方面。參與多元化和包容性的活動，或對公司通訊做出貢獻，這都可以是充實的體驗。

10. 設置目標

花時間反思您的職業生涯，設定實際的目標。思考未來幾年您想要達到的地方，並規劃可行的步驟以實現這些目標。

結論

實質上，充分利用時間的關鍵在於平衡專業發展與個人成長。通過增強技能，擴大人脈，投入個人專案，並專注於健康和組織參與，您可以創建一個全面的日常程序，這不僅可以推進您的職業生涯，也可以豐富您的個人生活。請記住，每一刻都很重要，所以將其用於個人和專業地成長和進化。

Developing a Career Path in Architecture - Navigating the Complexities and Embracing Continuous Learning

Embarking on a career as an architect in the technological realm is a journey that demands continuous effort and learning. The landscape of technology shifts rapidly. A former Clipper expert would found his extensive knowledge in the field becoming obsolete.

The Necessity of Continuous Learning and Resourcefulness

An architect’s journey doesn’t end with acquiring a title; it’s a path marked by constant learning. Keeping abreast of both technological and business advancements is crucial. However, resources fluctuate, making it essential to actively seek the latest tools, newsfeeds, and groups. This proactive approach to resource gathering is vital in staying current and relevant in the field.

The 20-Minute Rule: Balancing Career and Personal Life

One effective method to manage this balance is the "20-Minute Rule." This technique involves dedicating a minimum of 20 minutes each day to your career development, whether it's exploring new concepts or delving deeper into familiar ones. This practice, although seemingly brief, can significantly enhance an architect's technical breadth and overall career growth.

However, implementing this rule can be challenging amidst the demands of work, family, and personal interests. It's often proposed to utilize these 20 minutes during lunch breaks or post-work hours, but these time slots frequently become occupied with other priorities. Therefore, it's recommended to apply this rule first thing in the morning, post-coffee and pre-email check, to ensure it becomes a consistent part of your daily routine.

Developing a Personal Technology Radar

The perils of ignoring technological advancements and the dangers of living in a technology bubble. This realization underscores the importance of having a personal technology radar, a concept derived from ThoughtWorks.

The ThoughtWorks Technology Radar: A Guide for Personal Adaptation

The ThoughtWorks Technology Radar, developed by the Technology Advisory Board, offers a structured approach for evaluating technologies. This biannual radar consists of four quadrants covering tools, languages and frameworks, techniques, and platforms, and it categorizes technologies into four rings: Hold, Assess, Trial, and Adopt.

For personal use, adapting these quadrants and rings can provide guidance on what to focus on, research further, actively experiment with, or fully embrace. This approach helps in balancing the allure of new, exciting technologies with practical career considerations.

Utilizing Open Source Visualization Tools and Social Media

In 2016, ThoughtWorks released a tool to assist in creating personal radar visualizations. Additionally, social media platforms like Twitter can be invaluable in staying informed about emerging technologies and industry trends.

Conclusion: Practice Makes Perfect

The path to becoming a great architect lies in constant practice. Architecture, much like any skill, improves with regular exercise and application. Remember, there are no definitive answers in architecture—only trade-offs. The key is continuous learning and practice. So, take the plunge and start building your architecture skills today!

Developing a Career Path in Architecture - Navigating the Complexities and Embracing Continuous Learning

Hello, everyone! Welcome back to Continuous Improvement, the podcast where we explore how to refine our skills and enhance our careers in technology. I’m your host, Victor Leung, and today we’re talking about the life of a software architect—not just the role itself but how to continually grow and adapt in this rapidly evolving field.

Being an architect in technology is more than just reaching a title. It’s about engaging in an ongoing journey of learning and adaptation. The landscape of technology shifts constantly; what was relevant yesterday might become obsolete tomorrow. Remember the Clipper programming language? Exactly my point.

Let's dive into something I call The 20-Minute Rule. This is a method where you dedicate at least 20 minutes each day to advancing your knowledge—whether that’s exploring a new technology or deepening your understanding of a current project. This might sound brief, but these focused minutes can profoundly influence your career growth over time.

However, it's not without challenges. Our lives are packed with responsibilities, so it’s essential to carve out this time intentionally. I recommend setting this period first thing in the morning—after your coffee and before you dive into emails. It’s about making a small window of time a non-negotiable part of your day.

Another powerful tool in your arsenal should be a Personal Technology Radar. This idea, inspired by ThoughtWorks, helps you keep track of the latest in tools, languages, frameworks, and platforms. Their Technology Radar is a fantastic resource that categorizes tech into what you should Hold, Assess, Trial, and Adopt. Adapting this to your personal learning can guide you in what to focus on and experiment with next.

And don’t underestimate the power of social media and open source tools for keeping up with tech trends. In 2016, ThoughtWorks released a tool for creating your own radar visualizations, and platforms like Twitter are invaluable for real-time updates from tech leaders and communities.

To wrap up, becoming a great architect is like any other skill—it improves with practice. There’s no perfect blueprint in architecture; it’s all about making informed trade-offs and learning from each project. Continuous learning is your best tool in navigating this complex, ever-changing environment.

Thank you for tuning in to Continuous Improvement. I hope today’s episode inspires you to integrate daily learning into your routine and actively shape your technology radar. I’m Victor Leung, and I look forward to joining you next time as we continue to build our skills and improve together. Until then, keep learning, keep growing, and keep pushing the boundaries of what you can achieve.

在建築領域的職業生涯發展中 - 應對複雜性並擁抱持續學習

作為技術領域中的建築師開始職業生涯是一條需要不斷努力和學習的旅程。科技的風景瞬息萬變。一名曾經的Clipper專家可能會發現他在這個領域的大量知識已經過時了。

持續學習與足智多謀的必要性

一個建築師的旅程並不是在獲得職位後就結束；這是一條由不斷學習標記的道路。保持對技術和商業進步的了解至關重要。然而，資源會波動，使得主動尋找最新的工具、新聞源和團體變得至關重要。這種對資源收集的主動態度對於保持與時俱進和在領域中保持相關性至關重要。

20分鐘法則：平衡職業生涯和個人生活

平衡這兩者的一種有效方法是"20分鐘法則"。這種技巧涉及到每天至少花20分鐘在你的職業發展上，無論是探索新概念還是深入瞭解熟悉的概念。這種做法，儘管看似簡短，卻可以大大提升建築師的技術廣度和整體職業發展。

然而，在工作、家庭和個人興趣的需求中實施這種規則可能會充滿挑戰。人們常常建議在午餐時間或下班後的時間利用這20分鐘，但這些時間經常被其他優先事項佔據。因此，建議早上起來，喝咖啡和查看郵件之後，第一件事就是實施這個規則，以確保它成為你每天日常生活的一部分。

發展個人科技雷達

忽視科技進步的危險和生活在科技泡沫中的危險。這一認識凸顯了擁有一個個人科技雷達的重要性，這是一個源自ThoughtWorks的概念。

ThoughtWorks科技雷達：個人適應的指南

由技術諮詢委員會開發的ThoughtWorks科技雷達，為評估技術提供了結構化的方法。這個每半年出一次的雷達包括工具、語言和框架、技術和平台的四個象限，並將技術分為四個環：保留、評估、試驗和採用。

對於個人使用，這些象限和環的調整可以提供在什麼上面集中，進一步研究，積極實驗，或完全擁抱的指導。這種方法有助於平衡新的、令人興奮的技術的吸引力和實際的職業考慮。

利用開放源碼的視覺化工具和社交媒體

在2016年，ThoughtWorks發布了一個幫助創建個人雷達可視化的工具。此外，像Twitter這樣的社交媒體平台可以在了解新興技術和行業趨勢方面提供無可估量的價值。

結論：熟能生巧

成為一個優秀的建築師的道路在於不斷的實踐。建築，就像任何一種技能一樣，隨著定期的練習和應用而提高。請記住，建築中沒有定性的答案——只有權衡。關鍵是持續的學習和實踐。所以，采取行動，開始今天就構建你的建築技能！

The Art of Negotiation and Leadership in Software Architecture

Harnessing Negotiation and Leadership as a Software Architect

In the complex world of software architecture, possessing strong negotiation and leadership skills is crucial. These are not innate traits but are cultivated through years of learning and real-world experiences. This blog post delves into these vital skills, offering foundational techniques for aspiring architects to embark on their journey towards mastery.

Understanding Negotiation and Facilitation in Architecture

A software architect's role involves navigating the political landscape of an enterprise, a task that requires keen negotiation skills. Every decision is subject to challenge, be it from developers, fellow architects, or stakeholders. Effective negotiation helps in balancing varied viewpoints and arriving at decisions that align with the organization's goals.

Real-World Negotiation: Balancing Cost and Availability

Take, for instance, the decision to use database clustering and federation for enhancing system availability. While technically sound, it's a costly choice. Here, the architect's negotiation skills come into play, striking a balance between availability and cost with business stakeholders.

Negotiating with Business Stakeholders

Scenario 1: Balancing Technical Realities and Stakeholder Expectations

Consider a scenario where a lead architect must negotiate with a senior vice president insisting on unrealistic system availability. The challenge lies in respectfully aligning the sponsor's expectations with technical feasibility, without coming off as condescending or dismissive.

Key Techniques in Stakeholder Negotiation

1. Leverage Grammar and Buzzwords: Understand underlying concerns behind phrases like “zero downtime”. It reveals stakeholders' priorities.
2. Gather Information: Before negotiating, research to understand the implications of terms like “five nines” of availability.
3. State Things in Terms of Cost and Time: Use this as a last resort, presenting the financial and temporal implications of decisions.

Negotiating with Other Architects

In disagreements, like the choice between asynchronous messaging and REST, the key lies in demonstration over argumentation. Showcasing the effectiveness of a solution in the specific environment often resolves conflicts more efficiently than theoretical debates.

Collaborating with Developers

A successful architect collaborates with the development team, justifying decisions rather than dictating them. This approach fosters mutual respect and a collaborative spirit, essential for effective team dynamics.

The Software Architect as a Leader

Leadership in software architecture is about 50% people skills. It's not just about technical prowess but also about guiding teams with clarity, communication, and collaborative spirit.

The 4 C’s of Architecture

1. Communication: Clear and concise communication is fundamental.
2. Collaboration: Work alongside teams and stakeholders for joint solution crafting.
3. Clarity and Conciseness: Avoid accidental complexity; simplicity is key.

Being Pragmatic and Visionary

Balancing pragmatic solutions with visionary thinking is vital. It's about making realistic decisions while considering future implications and technological advancements.

Leading by Example

Good architects lead not by title, but by example. They earn respect through their actions, demonstrating their commitment and expertise in real-world scenarios.

Integrating with Development Teams

An effective architect integrates with their team, balancing meeting obligations with hands-on team interaction. This involvement is crucial for mentoring, guiding, and resolving issues as they arise.

Conclusion: The Path to Effective Software Architecture Leadership

As Theodore Roosevelt aptly put it, the key to success is knowing how to get along with people. For software architects, this translates to a blend of negotiation prowess, leadership skills, and the ability to foster collaborative environments. These are the cornerstones of not just surviving but thriving in the complex landscape of software architecture.

The Art of Negotiation and Leadership in Software Architecture

Hello and welcome to another episode of Continuous Improvement. I’m Victor Leung, your guide on this journey to mastering the art and science of software architecture. Today, we're diving deep into the realms of negotiation and leadership—two crucial skills for any software architect. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to hone your existing skills, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the complex landscape of modern software development.

As software architects, we often find ourselves at the intersection of technology and business, where every decision can impact multiple stakeholders. Effective negotiation isn't just about getting what you want; it’s about finding a balance that aligns with the organization's goals and satisfies the varied interests of all parties involved.

Let’s consider a real-world scenario. Imagine you’re deciding whether to implement database clustering and federation to boost system availability. Technically, it’s a sound choice, but it comes with high costs. Here, your negotiation skills are crucial to balance the technical benefits against the financial constraints, crafting a solution that stakeholders can agree on.

When negotiating with senior stakeholders, like a vice president demanding unrealistic system availability, the key is to align their expectations with what’s technically feasible. Use their language, understand the concerns behind terms like “zero downtime,” and prepare to discuss the implications of these requirements.

And it’s not just about talking to business executives. Negotiating with fellow architects or developers often requires a different approach. For example, when there’s a disagreement over using asynchronous messaging versus REST, demonstrating the benefits of your preferred solution can be more effective than just theoretical debate.

Now, transitioning from negotiation to leadership, remember that being a leader in the architecture space is about 50% people skills. It’s about guiding your teams not just with authority but with empathy, clarity, and a collaborative spirit.

Embrace the 4 C’s of effective architectural leadership: Communication, Collaboration, Clarity, and Conciseness. Speak clearly, work closely with your teams and stakeholders, simplify complex ideas, and always aim to remove unnecessary complexities.

A visionary yet pragmatic approach is essential. Strive to make decisions that are realistic and consider the long-term implications of your architectural choices. Lead by example—show your commitment and expertise, and integrate closely with your team to mentor, guide, and resolve issues collaboratively.

As Theodore Roosevelt said, “The key to success is knowing how to get along with people.” For software architects, this means mastering negotiation to harmonize technical and business needs, and leading in a way that inspires and uplifts your team.

Thank you for tuning in to Continuous Improvement. I hope today’s episode empowers you to step up as a leader in your field and navigate the complexities of software architecture with confidence and finesse. I’m Victor Leung, and I look forward to exploring more topics with you that help us all grow and improve. Until next time, keep negotiating, keep leading, and keep improving.