WE NATURALLY DESIRE THINGS THAT ARE PERCEIVED AS EXCLUSIVE OR BELONGING TO A SELECT FEW.

How might this apply to great teams and cultures?

Limited support and access to the right networks manifests as gender or minority bias. Similarly, in merger and acquisitions, when information is sensitive and at a minimum, people are included only on a need-to-know basis. This can put an added strain of stress and anxiety on those not included.

How might this apply to great products?

“Private beta” was once a powerful tool for creating interest—and still can be when there is enough commotion. But don’t stop there: Games use levels to create exclusivity and reward proficiency. Some sites or areas of a site can be for members only (or those who have “earned” access). “Access” can also refer to acquiring the use of features or tools that aren’t available by default.

Consider

How does inclusion and exclusion of various population segments impact your work?

See Also

Status, Reputation, Scarcity, Value Attribution, Delighters, Story

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In the whirl of our day-to-day interactions, it’s all too easy to forget the nuances that distinguish great teams, great cultures, and great products/services.

Mental Model Flash Cards bring together insights from psychology into an easy reference and brainstorming tool. Each card describes one insight into human behavior and suggests ways to apply this to your teams as well as the design of your products and services.