Fast (patrickcollison.com)

Article summary

The article presents a list of examples of people quickly accomplishing ambitious things together, such as the development of the Visa card, the P-80 Shooting Star jet fighter, and the construction of the Eiffel Tower. These examples are used to highlight the potential for rapid progress and achievement when individuals work together towards a common goal. The article also notes that many of these examples are from the past, and wonders why similar rapid progress is not seen as often today. The article suggests that bureaucracy and other factors may be contributing to the slower pace of progress in modern times.

Main themes

• Rapid Progress
• Collaboration
• Bureaucracy
• Innovation
• Prior Research
• Institutional Will
• Regulatory Hurdles

What commenters say

• The development of the iPod was rapid, but built on existing technology and prior work.
• The COVID-19 vaccine development was fast, but the subsequent testing and approval process took longer due to bureaucracy.
• Some commenters argue that the slowing of progress is due to increased bureaucracy and regulatory hurdles.
• Others suggest that the presence of middle-management politics and performance reviews can hinder collaboration and progress in modern companies.
• The importance of prior research and existing technology is highlighted as a key factor in rapid development and innovation.
• The role of institutional will and unified goals is seen as crucial in achieving fast progress and completion of ambitious projects.
• Some commenters note that the examples listed are primarily from the past, and that similar rapid progress is not seen as often today.
• The impact of low interest rates and cheap money on the pace of progress and innovation is also discussed.