Life Altering Technology

Today I saw a deaf/blind man using the video calling feature on his phone to communicate with someone. In one hand he was holding his phone (selfie style), his other hand was doing sign language all while making gestures with his face and almost empty mouth.

I’ve never seen someone using technology like this and really made me appreciate the things that are possible using today’s handheld devices. It also made me a bit sad that so many software developers are using their creative genius for applications like ‘Go Radar – Live Map for Pokémon Go’ (the top app in the iOS AppStore at the time of writing). I know there are developers that work on valuable applications that improve a lot of people’s lives, but I feel like it’s a pretty small percentage. I include myself in this ‘unhelpful app’ developer list and is why it’s an interesting point for me to explore.

My current project is a tool for internet marketers. It will make their lives easier and add value to their business, but does it really help them? I’m going to say no. It’s not even in the same league as helping a disabled man travel alone and communicate with his friends and family. That doesn’t mean it isn’t of value or that I will stop pursuing it though, because I can justify it.

Developing this application has had a huge impact on my personal development and when it launches, will provide me with enough recurring revenue to pursue something more adventurous. I feel like I can have a much bigger impact on the world if I sort my personal finances out first and have enough of a cushion to take big risks. Plus I want to work my way up to something great. I’m only 23 years old and I know I have a lot to learn before I can lead a team to build something substantial. I wouldn’t want to risk people’s time and money leading a project as an inexperienced twenty-something.

So I’m going to get my head down, build something great, learn a bunch and then work on something life altering.