The Extent of memorable things - Part 2: what’s little and what’s big in size

Hey there, welcome back to Memento Catalyst! Last time, we chatted about how measuring memorability is a big deal, and we scratched the surface on the time factor and the vastness of what we call "things."

Today, let's dive into another way to measure memorability – the size of the memorable things we get up to.

Honestly, I started off wanting a quick chat about what's big and what's little. But, after spending a whole afternoon knee-deep in different angles and potential influences, turns out, it's not that simple.

So, today, let’s break down the nitty-gritty of the variables and assumptions we need to grasp to figure out how to size up memorability.

Think about it: Why bother measuring how big a memorable thing is? Does the size even matter? Is bigger always better, and is smaller always a downer? Can I even do something to change the size result, and should I care?

Well, my friend, it's a bit of a mixed bag. The impact we can have on the outcome varies. So, today’s mission is to dig deeper into how size plays a role in making moments memorable. Stick around for a down-to-earth exploration!

Memorability size: what is small and what is big

Let's dive into the intriguing realm of memorability size – what's considered small and what's considered big.

When it comes to measuring size, it's not as straightforward as checking meters, kilograms, or the usual suspects. Memorable things aren't always tangible, making it a bit of a puzzle to measure using traditional metrics like length, weight, volume, or even more abstract units like watts, decibels, bytes, or dollars.

Sure, if we're comparing a 100-meter statue to a 10-meter one, or a hefty 10 kg apple to a modest 0.2 kg apple, it's instinctive to say the larger one is, well, bigger. Same goes for a roaring 250 decibels explosion versus a milder 50 decibels one.

Throughout our lives, we've been schooled in the art of measurement. We humans love to have a scientific grip on things, always striving for a better understanding. Who's got the bigger one? Who comes out on top? Who did a stellar job?

But, and it's a big but, when it comes to memorability, all these measurements fall a bit short. They don't touch on the crucial aspect we need to unravel: what factors determine the likelihood of something being memorable? That's the real game-changer we're after.

Let’s try to visualise it: let’s put it on a graph!

X-AXIS

Remember our definition of memorability: it's the "degree of probability in which something will be remembered." The term "degree of probability" implies measurability, and the "probability to be remembered" fits snugly on a scale in the world of "memorability."

As we explored in our previous piece, memorability involves something being remembered, which naturally slots it onto a timeline. So, our first variable is a no-brainer:

x-axis = time (with point 0 being the moment the thing happens)

Now, we're not talking abstractly. We're plotting the journey of memorability against time, starting from ground zero when the memorable event unfolds. This graph will be our guide to unraveling the mystery of what makes things stick in our minds. Let's keep building on this visual adventure!

Y-AXIS

Let's add some height to our graph by introducing the Y-axis.

Our Y-axis will showcase the degree of memorability, working in harmony with our X-axis, which represents time. This duo is what we're examining – how memorability unfolds and evolves over time.

How do we interpret this data? Think of it this way: the higher up on the Y-axis, the stronger the memorability. So, our scale is geared towards making things simple – the higher the number, the more memorable.

In the realm of our graph, point 0 on the Y-axis is the starting point of "no memorability." As we move upward, we're ascending into the realm of more memorable experiences. This way, we can visually grasp how the memorability of an event intensifies over time.

Y-axis = memorability degree (with point 0 being the point of “no memorability”).

Now, we've got a dynamic duo of X and Y axes, ready to map out the intricacies of memorability against time. Buckle up, because our visual journey is just getting started!

Assumptions

Assumption 1: "The more people affected, the higher the degree of memorability."

So, envision this: as we move along the timeline on our X-axis, the height on our Y-axis increases not just based on time but also on the number of people influenced. The more folks impacted, the higher the degree of memorability.

This assumption aligns with the idea that collective memory often magnifies the impact of an event. It's not just about the moment; it's about how widely and deeply it resonates among people.

Our graph is evolving into a dynamic representation of how memorability unfolds over time and in the hearts and minds of the people touched by the experience. This people-centric approach adds a rich layer to our exploration. Ready for more? Let's keep building!

Assumption 2: "The higher the influence on people, the higher the degree of memorability."

This implies that it's not just about the sheer number of individuals touched by an event but also about the depth of impact on each person. The more profound the influence on an individual, the more memorable the experience becomes.

Furthermore, your insight about the interplay between individual impact and the number of people influenced is spot on. A higher number of people involved not only amplifies the memorability but also increases the likelihood of word of mouth and wider dissemination.

So, on our dynamic graph, as we move through time on the X-axis, the height on the Y-axis increases not just with numbers but with the intensity of impact on each person. It's a nuanced dance of influence and resonance shaping the landscape of memorability. Our graph is evolving beautifully! Ready for more refinements? Let's keep weaving these intricacies together!

The first assumption assumption however, does forget an important part of memorability: the degree of impact in which every single person has connected to the thing in question. In other words, the higher the impact on the single individual the higher the degree of memorability. Moreover, the higher the number of people influenced by the thing, the higher the degree of probability of word of mouth and spread.

Assumption 3: "Influence depends on the compound in time between intensity and impact on individuals."

Now, to unpack this a bit more: Influence, in this context, is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It's a compound result of both intensity and impact, and it evolves over time.

Intensity, here, refers to the measurable degree of force and energy affecting the unfolding event. This is quantified as the delta between two traditional metrics. On the other hand, impact represents the strength of the event's effect, measured as the delta between the possible end results.

So, when we talk about influence, we're looking at the dynamic interaction of intensity and impact, coupled with how their meanings change over time. It's not a static equation; it's a dance of forces and effects evolving as the event progresses.

This nuanced understanding adds layers to our graph, considering not only the sheer numbers of people and their individual impacts but also the dynamic interplay of intensity and impact over the course of time. Our visual representation is becoming a comprehensive canvas of memorability dynamics. Ready to keep refining this masterpiece? Let's dive deeper!

Assumption 4: "The influenced population is the number of people multiplied by the degree of influence."

This means that the influenced population isn't just a headcount; it's a nuanced metric that considers both the number of individuals and the depth of their influence. By multiplying these factors, we get a more comprehensive measure of the overall impact.

So, on our dynamic graph, as we travel through time on the X-axis, the Y-axis doesn't just reflect the number of people but takes into account the intricacies of influence, considering both quantity and quality.

This assumption brings us closer to capturing the essence of memorability – it's not just about the crowd; it's about the resonance within that crowd. Our visual representation is now turning into a sophisticated tool, mirroring the complexities of what makes things memorable. Ready to continue refining this masterpiece? Let's keep shaping this narrative!

Assumption 5: "The longer the delay between the happening of the thing in time and the present moment, the higher the chances of memorability loss over time."

This taps into the human tendency to forget things as time goes by. Our minds, filled with a myriad of experiences, often push less recent events to the backburner. Even significant occurrences may fade in the rearview mirror of our memory.

So, as we traverse the X-axis on our graph, moving away from the point of the event's occurrence, the Y-axis may subtly dip, reflecting the potential loss of memorability over time. This assumption acknowledges the temporal aspect of our memory and how recollection tends to dim with distance.

Our evolving model now encapsulates not only the dynamics of influence but also the natural ebb and flow of memorability over time. It's a rich tapestry we're weaving here. Ready to continue refining and weaving? Let's press on!

Assumption 6: "Assets degree – The more tangible and relevant (easy to recall) a thing is over time, the higher the chances of memorability gain."

This assumption digs into the human need for concrete facts and tangibility to bolster memory. As we navigate life's journey, individuals come and go, but the tangible aspects of events linger. The more something is grounded in reality, the greater its potential for being remembered, not only by those directly affected but also by subsequent generations.

Tangibility, in this context, isn't just about physical touch; it's about relevance and ease of recall. Even intangible elements can become tangible through efforts to make them clear and memorable. The relevance of an event in different points in time also contributes to its tangibility.

Ease of recall is a critical factor – if a memory is easily accessible, it gains a stronger foothold in our collective consciousness.

So, as we continue charting our graph through time, this assumption adds a layer of understanding about the enduring power of tangibility and relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of memorability. Our visual representation is becoming a comprehensive guide, accounting for the intricacies of human memory. Ready to keep refining and exploring? Let's continue our journey!

Assumption 7: "The legacy degree strictly depends on the ability to make a thing as tangible as possible to compensate for the passage of time."

This assumption beautifully bridges Assumption 4 and Assumption 5, finding a common ground between the chances of memorability and the impact of time. The longer the delay from the occurrence of an event, the greater the necessity for tangibility to maintain a higher degree of memorability.

We can encapsulate this connection in a single function, which we'll aptly name the "legacy degree." This function serves as a guide to understand how the tangibility of an event needs to evolve over time to counteract the natural decline in memorability.

So, on our graph, the legacy degree could be a dynamic line illustrating how the tangibility of an event must adapt as we move along the X-axis. It's a fascinating integration, highlighting the strategic role of tangibility in preserving the legacy of an event. Our evolving model is becoming a comprehensive tool for understanding the intricate dynamics of memorability. Ready to continue refining and deepening our exploration? Let's keep crafting this narrative!

Assumption 8: "The result in memorability can change exponentially depending on the degree of leadership added to the equation."

This assumption highlights the power of active leadership in influencing the course of memorability over time. While the natural tendency might be for memorability levels to dip as events age, effective leadership can act as a game-changer, potentially altering the trajectory.

Drawing a parallel to the "timeless growth graph" in business success, it's intriguing to observe that, much like growth levels, memorability levels might face challenges over time. However, the introduction of active leadership becomes a vital tool to counteract this decline.

So, on our graph, we can envision a curve that reflects how the addition of leadership can exponentially influence memorability. This curve signifies the dynamic impact of leadership in maintaining and enhancing the memorable quality of an event.

Our model is now weaving in the intricate dynamics of leadership into the fabric of memorability. Ready to continue refining and exploring? Let's dive deeper into the nuances of this assumption!

Assumption 9: "Active leadership depends on the sum of possibilities based on the assets and resources available."

This assumption underscores that effective leadership isn't just about having a vision and mission; it's also about the practicalities of assembling the necessary resources to bring that vision to life. Leadership becomes tangible when there's a clear purpose, a distinct personality, and a well-thought-out plan on how to utilize available resources.

In the context of memorability, this means that the effectiveness of leadership in maintaining and enhancing memorability is closely tied to the management of assets and resources. A leader's ability to navigate and leverage these elements contributes significantly to the tangible impact of their leadership.

So, on our graph, we can visualize the intersection of active leadership and the sum of possibilities created by managing assets and resources. This intersection becomes a crucial factor in understanding how leadership becomes a tangible force in the realm of memorability.

Our model is now incorporating the practical aspects of leadership, enriching our exploration of memorability dynamics. Ready to continue refining and deepening our understanding? Let's keep shaping this narrative!

Modeling Memorability Dynamics: A Holistic Approach

Disclaimer:

Am I a mathematician? Absolutely not. Am I 100% sure of this whole theory? Absolutely not! Do you have a better idea, are you a mathematician, do you have something to add? Please do! What we are trying to do here is to find a possible way to measure memorability and generate material that could inspire change and innovation.

Creating a comprehensive academic function to capture the intricate dynamics of memorability involves navigating a complex web of variables and their dynamic interactions. To construct a specific mathematical function that encapsulates the evolution of memorability over time, we must consider the influence of people, the impact and intensity compound, the influenced population, potential memorability loss over time, assets degree, legacy degree, impact of leadership, and the dependence on available assets and resources.

Constructing a precise mathematical function can be challenging due to the diversity and complexity of these factors. However, we can attempt to represent the dynamics in a generalized form:

This simplified representation provides a starting point, but the actual function might need refinement based on specific characteristics and the weighting of each assumption. Developing an accurate model for memorability dynamics could require statistical analysis, experimentation, and iterative adjustments based on real-world data.

It's essential to recognize the complexity of human memory and acknowledge that memorability is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by a variety of interconnected factors. Therefore, any attempt to model memorability should be approached with a holistic understanding and continuous validation against real-world observations.

Let’s put it in an example

General Observations Scenario Nr 1:

Okay, let's break it down. The graph basically shows that right after something happens, that moment is super memorable. It's like, "Bam! That just happened, and it's stuck in my head." But, as time goes by, the intensity of that memory starts to drop. It's kind of like the memory is on a downhill slope.

Now, here's the thing: the graph doesn't hit rock bottom at zero. It's more like the memory sticks around, but it's not as clear and easy to recall. It's there, but it's not as in-your-face as it was at the beginning.

So, in a nutshell, memories have this peak freshness right after the event, but they don't completely disappear over time. They sort of mellow out, becoming less vibrant but still hanging around in the background.

Let’s change the variables a little, let’s suppose we have constant active leadership on the memorability of the thing:

General observation scenario Nr 2:

So, here's the scoop. When leadership keeps its game strong and steady, the memory game gets a boost too. It's like the more someone keeps things in control and leads the way, the better we remember stuff.

Think of it as having a reliable captain steering the ship – things stick around in our minds for longer, making a real impact. So, bottom line, keeping that leadership vibe going seems to amp up the memorability factor, making events more memorable in the long run.

Second Disclaimer:

Alright, let's level with each other. Right now, I might not have all the fancy scientific proof to say this theory is an absolute rock-solid truth. But, here's the cool part: it looks pretty darn good, and it's got this positive vibe that can only bring to more memorable moments.

I'm all for opening up the floor, getting people talking, and working together on this. After all, being a Catalyst for memorability means stirring up ideas and discussions. So, here's the deal: if you're a math whiz or just someone keen on making this more technical and scientifically correct, I'm throwing the door wide open. Reach out, let's dive into this together and see where it takes us!

Conclusion

So, wrapping it up, we've been on a journey exploring what makes things memorable. From plotting it on a graph to diving into assumptions, we've tried to crack the code of memorability.

In plain terms, time plays a big role. Right after something happens, it's super memorable, like a fresh memory hit. But, over time, it sort of mellows out – not gone, but not as vibrant.

Our assumptions added layers, talking about the impact on people, the dance of influence, and how leadership can spice things up. Tangibility and relevance turned out to be MVPs for keeping memories alive.

Now, we tried to make it academic with a function, but hey, we're not claiming it's the Holy Grail. It's a start, recognizing that human memory is a wild ride.

Key Takeaways:

1. Memorability Changes with Time: Things hit hard right after, but they cool down over time.

2. People Matter: The more folks impacted and the depth of impact, the more memorable.

3. Influence is a Dynamic Game: It's not just numbers; it's the dance of intensity and impact.

4. Complex Influenced Population: It's not just a headcount; it's about how much people are moved.

5. Time Fades Memories: Memories fade as time goes on; that's just how our brains work.

6. Tangibility Rules: Making things clear and relevant is the secret sauce for lasting memories.

7. Legacy is a Thing: To keep a memory alive, you've got to make it tangible for the long run.

8. Leadership Adds Spice: A good leader can keep the memory game strong over time.

9. Leadership Needs Resources: Leading effectively means having the tools to make things happen.

Disclaimer:

We're not math wizards, and this isn't set in stone. It's more like a guide, a nudge to stir up ideas and discussions. If you're a math whiz, feel free to join the party – let's make this theory better together.

Second Disclaimer:

We're not claiming this is science yet. But, hey, it looks promising, and it's all about sparking positive change. Let's keep the discussion going and see where it leads!

Footnote:

Thank you for joining us on this journey into the world of memorability with 'The Memento Catalyst.' Your engagement and perspective are vital in shaping the conversations ahead.

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Yours,

Ian