Hardcover Live
Hardcover Live
Adam Fortuna & Stelian Dobrescu
Each week Adam & Ste focus on a specific feature, idea or prototype in Hardcover and iterate on it together or with guests.
#50 - Reading Journal
SummarySte announces his move to Paris and discusses the challenges of the relocation. Adam shares his previous experience in Paris and expresses excitement for Ste's new adventure. They reflect on their 50th episode of Hardcover and the commitment to building the platform. The conversation then shifts to the development of the reading journal feature in Hardcover, focusing on the ability to add notes and quotes while reading a book. They discuss the user flow and design of the feature, including the display of journal entries and the possibility of adding chapter information. In this conversation, Ste and Adam discuss the design and functionality of the reading journal feature for the Hardcover app. They explore options for saving different fields of data, such as moods and spoilers, and decide to include a toggle for note or quote entries. They also discuss the layout and placement of the quick add journal entry feature, considering both modal and drawer options. They plan to use the account privacy settings to determine the privacy of journal entries and discuss the possibility of sharing individual entries publicly. They also consider adding a link to the reading journal in the book button. Overall, they make significant progress in designing the reading journal feature.TakeawaysSte is moving to Paris, which is an exciting adventure for himHardcover is committed to building the platform and has reached its 50th episodeThe reading journal feature in Hardcover will allow users to add notes and quotes while reading a bookThe user flow and design of the reading journal feature are discussed, including the display of journal entries and the possibility of adding chapter information The reading journal feature will include options for saving moods and spoilers.The quick add journal entry feature will be implemented as a modal that takes over the entire screen.The privacy settings for journal entries will be determined by the account privacy settings and the privacy setting of the book.Individual journal entries can be shared publicly, even if the overall journal is set to private.A link to the reading journal will be added to the book button for easy access.Chapters00:00 Ste's Move to Paris and Hardcover's Commitment09:11 Introducing the Reading Journal Feature13:49 Adding Notes and Quotes to Enhance the Reading Experience36:26 Designing the Reading Journal Feature39:10 Implementing the Quick Add Journal Entry Modal47:06 Choosing Data Fields and Privacy Settings53:06 Adding a Link to the Reading Journal in the Book Button56:21 Sharing Individual Journal Entries
Jul 4, 2024
1 hr 5 min
#49 - Stats (cont.)
SummaryIn this conversation, Adam and Ste discuss various topics including the challenges of balancing support and development, the importance of feeling the pain of users, and the progress on the Hardcover app. They also discuss the design updates for the currently reading page and the implementation of progress updates. They explore different options for selecting time frames for stats and consider the possibility of a sticky selector for easy access. In this conversation, Ste and Adam discuss various aspects of the stats feature for the library app. They explore options for displaying date ranges, including different formats and localization. They also discuss the possibility of a comparison mode and the challenges of implementing it. They consider different ways to navigate and select date ranges, including using a calendar icon and a side drawer. They also discuss the idea of adding settings to individual widgets and the potential for a flip animation when accessing settings. They plan to gather feedback from users on the different stats options and prioritize them accordingly.TakeawaysBalancing support and development is a challenge for small teams, and finding the right balance is crucial.Feeling the pain of users and staying connected to their needs is essential for building a successful product.Design updates for the currently reading page include changes to the layout and the addition of progress updates.Implementing progress updates involves considering different formats and editions of books and ensuring a smooth transition between them.The selection of time frames for stats can be done through a sticky selector, allowing users to easily switch between different periods. Consider different date range formats and localization options for displaying statsExplore the possibility of a comparison mode for comparing statsProvide easy navigation and selection of date ranges, such as using a calendar icon and a side drawerAdd settings to individual widgets for customizationGather feedback from users to prioritize and refine the stats feature
Jul 4, 2024
1 hr 11 min
#48 - New Stats & Progress update
SummaryAdam and Ste discuss their recent family time and vacations. They also discuss the challenges of balancing work and personal life. They review the design for updating progress on a book and consider different options for the user interface. They explore the idea of using incremental page numbers and discuss the possibility of autosaving progress. They also discuss the placement of the change edition button and the design for editing the page number. In this conversation, Adam and Ste discuss the implementation of a feature that allows users to select their book edition. They explore different options for displaying and selecting editions, including using a combo box or a popover. They also discuss the possibility of users adding new editions and how to handle covers for different editions. They touch on the idea of using the same components for updating progress and edition selection. They also briefly mention upcoming features related to book statistics and progress tracking.TakeawaysBalancing work and personal life is important for productivity and well-being.Consider different options for user interface design to improve user experience.Incremental page numbers may not be necessary if users can input the exact page number.Autosaving progress can be implemented with a time buffer to prevent multiple updates.Consider the placement and design of buttons and form fields for a seamless user experience. Users will be able to select their book edition, with options for different formats and covers.A combo box or popover can be used to display and select editions.Users can add new editions, which will be available for others to select.The progress tracking feature will be updated to store pages read and audio position.Book statistics and progress tracking will be enhanced in future updates.Chapters00:00 Balancing Work and Personal Life16:04 Designing the Update Progress Feature31:44 Implementing Autosave for Progress Updates38:57 Optimizing Button Placement and Form Field Design40:22 Implementing Book Edition Selection56:03 Changing Progress Tracking and Adding Journals01:08:17 Sneak Peek into Book Statistics
Jul 4, 2024
1 hr 11 min
#47 – Bulk Editing
SummaryThe conversation covers a wide range of topics related to new technology in the book space, including hardware, open source development, and the implementation of bulk edit mode. The discussion also delves into the challenges and considerations of open sourcing a network like Hardcover. The conversation transitions from discussing new technology in the book space to the implementation of bulk edit mode in the Hardcover app. The conversation covers the design and implementation of a bulk edit feature for a book library app, focusing on the user interface and user experience. It also delves into the potential use cases and implications of bulk editing, as well as the technical considerations for implementing the feature. The discussion also touches on the importance of user feedback and the iterative development process.TakeawaysExploration of new technology in the book space, including hardware and open source developmentChallenges and considerations of open sourcing a network like HardcoverImplementation of bulk edit mode in the Hardcover app Bulk editing in a book library app requires thoughtful consideration of user interface and user experience.The implementation of bulk editing has implications for power readers and the ease of managing large book collections.Technical considerations, such as auto-saving and fuzzy dates, play a role in enhancing the bulk editing feature.User feedback and iterative development are crucial for refining and improving the bulk editing feature.Chapters00:00 Exploring New Technology in the Book Space03:14 Challenges and Considerations of Open Sourcing13:21 Implementing Bulk Edit Mode in Hardcover
Jun 1, 2024
57 min
#46 - Ross From Hardy's Books
SummaryRoss and Laura from Hardee's Books share their journey of turning their book-buying obsession into a thriving business. They discuss their passion for fantasy and sci-fi, their commitment to donating 20% of their profits to charity, and their dream of opening a physical bookshop. They also talk about their YouTube channel and the challenges and joys of being book influencers. The conversation touches on the future of book platforms and the influence of algorithms. In this conversation, Ross and Laura of Hardy's Books discuss their strong opinions on book platforms and social networks. They criticize the lack of innovation in popular book apps like Goodreads and emphasize the importance of human curation and sharing. They also discuss the potential backlash to AI and the need for ethical use and development. Ross recommends books like 'Piranesi' by Susanna Clarke and 'The Blade Itself' by Joe Abercrombie, while Laura enjoys reading in the bath and watching birds in her garden. They give shoutouts to other content creators and share their online platforms.TakeawaysTurning a book-buying obsession into a business requires finding a model that works, such as selling secondhand books or focusing on independent new books.Bookshops have a unique appeal in the experience-based high street economy, offering a physical space with a vibe and a smell that online platforms can't replicate.Book influencers play a role in recommending upcoming books and creating buzz, but the influence of algorithms and the potential for misinformation is a concern.Authors and readers may have different expectations from book platforms, with readers seeking recommendations from influencers and authors desiring a platform that fosters a productive relationship with their audience.The future of book platforms may involve a combination of influencers, collaborative reviews, and personalized recommendations, but the challenge lies in maintaining authenticity and avoiding algorithmic manipulation. Popular book apps like Goodreads lack innovation and prioritize pleasing shareholders over improving the user experience.Human curation and sharing are important in book platforms, and there may be a backlash to AI in favor of more personalized recommendations.Books like 'Piranesi' and 'The Blade Itself' are highly recommended by Ross and Laura.Reading in a cozy environment, such as a shepherd's hut or in the bath, enhances the reading experience.Supporting and promoting other content creators in the book community is important.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background05:10 Starting Hardee's Books and the Dream of a Physical Bookshop09:03 The Role of Book Influencers and the Future of Book Platforms43:01 The Backlash to AI and the Importance of Human Curation46:27 Recommended Books: 'Piranesi' and 'The Blade Itself'48:34 Creating a Cozy Reading Environment52:37 Supporting and Promoting Content Creators in the Book Community
May 28, 2024
1 hr 9 min
#45 - Stats & New Readers
SummaryThe conversation revolves around the revamping of the stats feature in Hardcover. The hosts discuss the need for a more flexible and customizable date range selection for the stats. They explore different options for implementing this, including a dropdown menu with predefined date ranges and a custom date range selector. They also consider the possibility of adding visual elements, such as illustrations or book covers, to make the stats page more engaging and shareable on social media. The conversation focused on redesigning the stats page for a book tracking app. They discussed adding visualizations, animations, and shareable elements to make the stats more engaging and shareable on social media. They explored ideas such as comparing stats to previous years, showcasing top authors, and generating images of individual stats for sharing. The conversation ended with a preview of next week's guest, Ross from Hardee's Books, who will discuss his experience as a book influencer and his thoughts on social book apps.TakeawaysThe stats feature in Hardcover is being revamped to provide a more flexible and customizable date range selection.Options for the date range selection include predefined ranges like 'all time', 'last year', and 'custom range'.Visual elements, such as illustrations or book covers, may be added to make the stats page more engaging and shareable on social media.The revamp aims to make the stats page visually appealing and easy to navigate, with a focus on user customization and personalization. Redesigning the stats page to make it more engaging and shareableAdding visualizations and animations to showcase statsExploring ideas such as comparing stats to previous years and showcasing top authorsGenerating images of individual stats for sharing on social mediaChapters00:00 Introduction and Discussion about Music Festival03:01 Surprising Increase in Users for Hardcover07:20 Reaching Milestones and Funding for Hardcover13:06 Debate and Feedback on AI in the Book Industry33:32 Designing the Date Range Selection for Stats36:15 Adding Visual Elements to the Stats Page37:22 Introduction and Recap39:15 Adding Visualizations and Animations45:46 Comparing Stats and Showcasing Top Authors49:49 Generating Shareable Images01:04:17 Preview of Next Week's Guest
May 20, 2024
1 hr 4 min
#44 - Priorities
SummaryAdam and Ste discuss their upcoming plans, including attending a music festival and watching Eurovision. They also talk about recent updates to Hardcover, such as the release of letter lists and the focus on server-side rendering. They discuss the company's priorities for the year, including reaching profitability, open sourcing the front end, and expanding Hardcover's mission. They also consider potential supporter features, such as revamping stats and the profile page. The conversation focuses on prioritizing features and improvements for the hardcover app. They discuss potential supporter features, such as modifying profile pages and accessing additional functionality on the dashboard. They also explore ways to increase user engagement and conversion rates, including inviting friends to join hardcover and improving the early user experience. The conversation highlights the importance of refining book data and advanced stats, as well as making it easier to share stats on social media. They also discuss the potential for open sourcing hardcover and allowing users to create their own dashboard widgets.TakeawaysAdam and Ste are excited about attending a music festival and watching Eurovision.Hardcover recently released letter lists and implemented server-side rendering for faster performance.The company's priorities for the year include reaching profitability, open sourcing the front end, and expanding Hardcover's mission.They discuss potential supporter features, such as revamping stats and the profile page. Consider adding supporter features like modifying profile pages and accessing additional functionality on the dashboardFocus on improving the early user experience and increasing user engagement and conversion ratesRefine book data and advanced stats to provide a better user experienceMake it easier for users to share stats on social mediaExplore the possibility of open sourcing hardcover and allowing users to create their own dashboard widgetsChapters00:00 Music Festivals and Eurovision04:30 Recent Updates to Hardcover09:32 Priorities for the Year29:02 Enhancing the Supporter Experience33:43 Improving User Engagement and Conversion Rates41:47 Refining Book Data and Advanced Stats53:47 Making Stats Sharing Easier56:25 Open Sourcing Hardcover and Custom Dashboard Widgets
May 20, 2024
59 min
#43 - Dashboard Widgets
SummaryAdam and Ste discuss their recent activities and then dive into designing widgets for the Hardcover app's dashboard. They explore different options for displaying the 'currently reading' widget, including the possibility of a carousel-like feature. They also discuss the idea of customizable settings for each widget, such as the ability to track reading progress by day, week, or month. They consider the use of a universal control for widget sizes and the option to edit progress using input fields or a slider. They also discuss the design of the update button and the possibility of making the progress fields content editable. In this conversation, Ste and Adam discuss different ways to update progress and add actions to the currently reading widget. They explore options such as marking a book as read, leaving a review, changing the edition, and setting a custom page count. They also consider the possibility of resizing and reordering the widget based on the number of books being read. The conversation concludes with a discussion on using interactive inputs for page numbers and percentages. Overall, they aim to make updating progress and taking actions on the currently reading widget more intuitive and efficient.TakeawaysThe dashboard in the Hardcover app will serve as a customized portal to users' data and preferences.Widgets on the dashboard can be designed to work on both desktop and mobile, with some widgets having multiple size options.Customizable settings for each widget, such as tracking progress by day, week, or month, can enhance user experience.The 'currently reading' widget can display all books being read, with the option to scroll or adjust the widget size based on the number of books.The update button can trigger a drawer or window for editing progress, and progress fields can be made content editable for seamless editing. The currently reading widget can be enhanced by adding actions such as marking a book as read, leaving a review, and changing the edition.Consider implementing a custom page count or minute count option for books with different editions or formats.Resizing and reordering the currently reading widget based on the number of books being read can provide a better user experience.Using interactive inputs, such as draggable sliders, for page numbers and percentages can make updating progress more intuitive.Reuse design elements and styles from other cards, such as the letter books card, to maintain consistency across the application.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Recent Activities08:03 Designing Widgets for the Hardcover Dashboard27:06 Exploring Widget Design in Bento33:32 Exploring Actions on the Currently Reading Widget40:49 Marking as Read and Leaving a Review51:09 Customizing Progress Updates for Different Editions01:02:37 Intuitive Inputs for Page Numbers and Percentages
Apr 26, 2024
1 hr 3 min
#42 - Book Cards
SummaryAdam and Ste discuss their recent trips to South Korea and Romania, respectively. They talk about their experiences, including hiking, exploring local markets, and enjoying the cherry blossoms. They also discuss updates to the card design for lists on Hardcover, specifically focusing on adding reasons for adding books to a list. They explore different options for displaying the reasons and gather feedback from Discord users. They also discuss the possibility of auto-saving the reasons and using avatars to indicate the list creator. In this conversation, Ste and Adam discuss the design of book cards and explore different elements and features that should be included. They discuss the placement and design of prompts, reasons, and upvoting functionality. They also consider the hierarchy of information and the sorting options for book cards. The conversation ends with a plan to implement and test the different card designs.TakeawaysTravel experiences can be enhanced by immersing oneself in local culture and exploring specific aspects of the destination, such as folklore and cuisine.Involving users in the design process through platforms like Discord can lead to valuable feedback and iterative improvements.When designing features, it's important to consider user preferences and make the interface intuitive and easy to use.Auto-saving can provide a seamless user experience, but clear feedback is necessary to ensure users understand that their input has been saved.Using avatars can personalize the user experience and provide visual cues for differentiating between list creators and other users. Book cards should include prompts, reasons, and upvoting functionalityThe hierarchy of information on the card should be carefully consideredSorting options for book cards should include most recently added and most likedDifferent card designs should be implemented and testedChapters00:00 Introduction and Travel Experiences11:28 Designing the Card Layout for Adding Reasons to Lists29:56 Auto-Saving vs Manual Saving: Balancing User Experience36:35 Designing Book Cards: Prompts, Reasons, and Upvoting52:40 Implementing and Testing Different Card Designs
Apr 19, 2024
1 hr 5 min
#41 - List Progress
SummaryIn this conversation, Adam and Ste discuss various topics including their upcoming trip to Korea, the progress of open sourcing Hardcover, and the new design for the list page. They also talk about bulk editing and filters, as well as sorting and pagination options. Overall, they are excited about the future developments of Hardcover and the improvements it will bring to the user experience. In this conversation, Adam and Ste discuss various design decisions for the hardcover app. They debate between pagination and infinite scrolling, ultimately deciding to go with infinite scrolling for a smoother user experience. They also discuss the idea of different views for different list types and the possibility of animating the transition between views. They consider the option of uniform cover sizes and the potential of making the match percentage feature a supporter-only feature. Finally, they plan to design the card view and gather feedback from the community.TakeawaysInfinite scrolling is preferred over pagination for a smoother user experience.Different list types may require different views to display relevant information.Animating the transition between views can enhance the user experience.Consider making certain features supporter-only to manage resource usage.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Ice Cream03:02 Upcoming Trip to Korea06:37 Open Sourcing Hardcover09:49 New List Page Design12:18 Bulk Editing and Filters14:44 Development Progress35:10 Pagination vs Infinite Scrolling40:37 Different Views for Different List Types46:05 Transitioning between Views50:42 Uniform Cover Sizes51:22 Making Match Percentage a Supporter Feature58:02 Designing the Card View01:03:07 Customizing Card Views for Different List Types
Mar 29, 2024
1 hr 6 min
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