Latest news with #Huynh
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Jeff Bezos banned PowerPoints, but Amazon's 6-page memos are legendary and every employee must obey
At most companies, meetings kick off with quick chats or PowerPoint slides, but at Amazon , there was writing and a lot of reading, as per a report. Jeff Bezos Replaced PPT Slides With Six-Page Memo Under Jeff Bezos' leadership, Amazon built a famously rigorous 'reading culture' centered around drafting six-page memos , according to Business Insider. These densely packed documents became a signature of how business decisions, new ideas, and major product strategies were communicated at one of the world's most influential companies, as per the report. Steve Huynh, a former principal engineer at Amazon, shared that, "I spent on the order of like 1-4 hours every day reading while I was a principal engineer," and added, "What an amazing culture that I think that almost every other company should replicate if they could," as quoted by Business Insider. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 이걸 발견한 후로 다른 모든 게임을 하지 않게 됐어요! 레이드 섀도우 레전드 설치하기 Undo He shared that, "I got really really good at just reading these documents to get up to speed," and explained that reading enough six-page memos taught him to express himself in the same format, according to the report. ALSO READ: Jim Cramer doubles down on Jensen Huang: Own Nvidia, don't trade it, says stock's up 42,000% since his pick Live Events Amazon's Internal Communication Built on Memo Culture Huynh joined Amazon in 2006, back when the company had only recently turned a profit and Bezos was still CEO, according to the report. Huynh highlighted that the e-commerce giant's approach of writing and reading the 6-page memos was part of its "secret sauce" and revealed that Amazon employees' writing was often constrained to the format during his tenure at the company, whether it was a business strategy, system design, or press release, as reported by Business Insider. Bezos had started this culture of memo-writing from the top down, and the Amazon founder insisted on dense, direct memos in 10-point font, as reported by Business Insider. In Bezos' 2017 letter to shareholders, he had written that "we don't do PowerPoint," instead opting for these six-pagers, and added, "Not surprisingly, the quality of these memos varies widely," as quoted in the report. While speaking on the Lex Fridman Podcast in 2023, Bezos shared that Amazon employees read these memos together before meetings and also explained why he didn't ask employees to read the memos in advance, according to Business Insider. He said, "The problem is people don't have time to do that, and they end up coming to the meeting having only skimmed the memo, or maybe not read it at all," and added that, "They're also bluffing like they're in college, having pretended to do the reading," as quoted in the report. ALSO READ: Elon Musk calls Warren Buffett boring, but secretly begged him to invest in Tesla Andy Jassy Pitched AWS with 30 Drafts of Six-Page Memo During a 2017 talk at the University of Washington, his successor and Amazon's current CEO, Andy Jassy, who has worked at the firm since 1997, described writing his own memo when first pitching what would become Amazon Web Services, as reported by Business Insider. Jassy recalled, "I remember this six-page narrative, we called it a vision doc. We asked for 57 people, which felt so ballsy at the time. I was so nervous, I wrote 30 drafts of this paper, and Jeff didn't blink," as quoted in the report. Memo Culture Lives On Even under his own leadership, Jassy has continued the culture of memo-writing, reported Business Insider. In his 2024 letter to shareholders, he had revealed that only a six-page allotment made the memos "much easier for the audience to engage with and ask the right 'why' questions," as quoted in the Business Insider report. FAQs Who created Amazon's memo culture ? Jeff Bezos started it, and Andy Jassy has continued it as CEO, as per the Business Insider report. Can other companies copy this culture? Huynh says it's possible, but it requires top-down discipline and consistency.
Business Insider
13-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
Former Amazon principal engineer says he spent '1-4 hours' reading daily — and it's part of the company's 'secret sauce'
When Steve Huynh was a principal engineer at Amazon, meetings began with a "study hall." Amazon had a "reading culture" even among engineers, Huynh recently told the Pragmatic Engineer podcast, speaking of his time at the tech giant. Employees frequently drafted six-page memos, he said, which they shared with the company to update progress and demonstrate new projects. "I spent on the order of like 1-4 hours every day reading while I was a principal engineer," Huynh said. "What an amazing culture that I think that almost every other company should replicate if they could." Huynh, who said the company's embrace of writing and reading the 6-page memos was part of its "secret sauce," said Amazon employees' writing was often constrained to the format during his tenure at the company, whether it was a business strategy, system design, or press release. Huynh started at Amazon in 2006, only a few years after the company turned its first profit and while Jeff Bezos was at the helm. Bezos famously instilled this culture of memo-writing from the top down. Bezos insisted on dense, direct memos in 10-point font. In his 2017 letter to shareholders, Bezos wrote that "we don't do PowerPoint," instead opting for these six-pagers. "Not surprisingly, the quality of these memos varies widely," he wrote. Before meetings, Amazon employees read these memos together. On the Lex Fridman Podcast in 2023, Bezos explained why he didn't ask employees to read the memos in advance. "The problem is people don't have time to do that, and they end up coming to the meeting having only skimmed the memo, or maybe not read it at all," Bezos said. "They're also bluffing like they're in college, having pretended to do the reading." Andy Jassy, Bezos' successor and Amazon's current CEO, has worked at the company since 1997. When first pitching what would become Amazon Web Services, Jassy described writing his own memo. "I remember this six-page narrative, we called it a vision doc. We asked for 57 people, which felt so ballsy at the time. I was so nervous, I wrote 30 drafts of this paper, and Jeff didn't blink," Jassy said in a 2017 talk to the University of Washington. Jassy has continued the culture of memo-writing under his own leadership. In his 2024 letter to shareholders, Jassy wrote that a mere six-page allotment made the memos "much easier for the audience to engage with and ask the right 'why' questions." "I got really really good at just reading these documents to get up to speed," Huynh said on the podcast, explaining that reading enough six-page memos taught him to express himself in the same format. Huynh no longer works at Amazon. He left to pursue YouTube content creation full-time, as he told BI in 2024. But Huynh still reveres the company's reading culture — even if he acknowledges it may not be easily reproducible. "The difficulty would be, you actually have to be disciplined and principled," Huynh said. His interviewer, Gergely Orosz, argued it could only be done from the top down. Huynh agreed.
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
UBS Affirms Merck & Co's (MRK) ‘Buy' Rating on HPV Vaccine Prospects
Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) is one of the 10 best defensive stocks to buy in a volatile market. On July 2, UBS reiterated a 'Buy' rating on the stock and a $105 price target. According to analyst Trung Huynh, the company's human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, Gardasil, is a key driver of growth. 360b / Huynh insists investors have only shown limited near-term interest in the stock ahead of key inflection points. For starters, the return of Gardasil shipments to China is expected to bolster the company's revenue base. According to the investment firm Gardasil, inventory levels in China remain elevated owing to expanded promotional efforts spanning five regions. Following $200 million in shipments into China, UBS does not expect additional shipments. However, it expects Merck to generate up to $5.8 billion in Gardasil sales. Additionally, Huynh is optimistic about the full Phase 3 oral PCSK9 CORALreef Lipids readout in hypercholesterolemia. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) develops and provides solutions in areas like biopharmaceutical therapies, scientific research tools, and materials for electronics, including smartphones and televisions. While we acknowledge the potential of MRK as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: and . Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Metro
02-07-2025
- Metro
PS6 console will be all about AI but not in a bad way, reveals AMD
A statement from AMD, about their work on the PS6, describes how they'll use AI, as Sony confirms support for ChatGPT. The Nintendo Switch 2 only just launched but within the next two years we're very likely to see the next generation Xbox and the PlayStation 6 as well. That in turn means we'll soon start to get more official details about the new hardware, from both companies. In fact, just the other week, Microsoft confirmed they were making both a home and portable console, following a multi-year deal with chipmaker AMD. As is often the case, companies like AMD often end up making chips for rival consoles and they're also providing the tech for the PlayStation 6. As such, they've just made it very clear how much it will rely on AI, in what is set to be the most important technology of the next generation. Of course, there isn't really any such thing as AI yet, in terms of software that can think for itself, as the technology that draws creepy looking humans with six fingers is closer to predictive text than it is Skynet. What's currently called AI is more usefully referred to as machine learning, and is very useful for mundane tasks, such as increasing resolution and frame rates in video games, without requiring any additional horsepower. Most modern hardware, including the Switch 2, already makes use of such technology and in a lengthy post on Twitter, Jack Huynh, AMD's senior vice president for computing and graphics, gave a first hint of what he's working on for the PlayStation 6. Sign up to the GameCentral newsletter for a unique take on the week in gaming, alongside the latest reviews and more. Delivered to your inbox every Saturday morning. He didn't use the phrases AI or PlayStation 6 but described how Project Amethyst is a 'co-engineering effort' with Sony that's 'focused on machine learning-driven graphics and gameplay innovations.' The project has two main goals, of designing a hardware architecture 'optimised specifically for machine learning workloads in gaming' and 'developing high-quality neural networks that push the boundaries of real-time game graphics.' He provides specific examples too, such as super resolution in FSR 4 (FidelityFX Super Resolution 4). FSR 4 is a machine-learning resolution upscaler, that will be used for the first time with Call Of Duty: Black Ops 6 on PC – assuming you've got a Radeon RX 9000 series graphics chip. Huynh also promised machine learning based frame generation and ray regeneration, in other words tech that will make faster frame rates and ray-tracing easier to do and leave the PlayStation 6's processor free to concentrate on other things. Naturally, no time frame is discussed, but Huynh insists that, 'There's enormous potential ahead, and we're incredibly proud of what we've achieved so far. The future of gaming is bright – and we're just getting started.' Although no one has an issue with upscaling resolutions, frame rate generation is more controversial, because it only creates the illusion of a higher frame rate. It's still whatever it is – 30fps, say – and so while it looks smoother there's often noticeable input lag because the controls are still stuck as what they are. More Trending However, the really controversial stuff is using generative AI to create programming code and assets, which Huynh doesn't touch on in his tweet. Speaking to IGN though, PlayStation chief architect Mark Cerny stated that, 'this will support ChatGPT, if that's what the developers want.' He seems to imply Sony won't be pushing the technology that heavily themselves, but they will be supporting it. Microsoft has already made it very clear that it's intending to use AI for much more than just upscaling and it seems certain that their talk of the next gen Xbox featuring the 'largest technical leap' ever for a generation is based around AI. How different that will make the capabilities of the Xbox and PlayStation 6 is unclear but while Sony is certainly using similar technology it remains to be seen if they have quite the same enthusiasm for AI as Microsoft does. Email gamecentral@ leave a comment below, follow us on Twitter. To submit Inbox letters and Reader's Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use our Submit Stuff page here. For more stories like this, check our Gaming page. MORE: Nintendo finally reveal Donkey Kong Bananza developer and it's a bit of a surprise MORE: Donkey Kong Bananza hands-on preview – from the makers of Super Mario Odyssey MORE: Halo team promises 'official scoop' on series' future later this year
Yahoo
27-06-2025
- Yahoo
Travelling for Canada Day? If you're over 50, don't leave home without these 11 things
Got a Canada Day trip or summer vacation planned? If you're flying, there are certain travel essentials you'll want to have on hand for a comfortable experience. It's always good to be prepared — and who has more experience with what to pack than someone who spends thousands of hours a year in the sky? Pam Huynh is a flight attendant with Air Canada, with nine years of experience in the travel industry. We asked Huynh for her list of packing essentials — with special attention to items people over the age of 50 should always have on hand when flying, whether in their carry-on or checked luggage. Keep scrolling to see what she recommends, and to shop her picks. Comfortable footwear is a must when travelling, especially if you're someone who likes to take their shoes off on the plane. The best option? Slip-ons. 'Because people don't have a lot of legroom, I find they try to bend over to tie their shoes,' Huynh says. 'Slip-on shoes are so much easier.' She also adds that depending on your destination and what airport(s) you go through, you might have to remove your shoes for security. That makes slip-ons and even smarter choice. If you're someone who requires a bit more support and cushioning, Huynh recommends Sketchers for their arch support. These slip-on sneakers from Sketchers are lightweight and feature a cushiony memory foam sole. Huynh says she would "definitely" recommend bringing along a neck pillow when flying, especially for those who struggle with neck or back pain — or if you just find flights bother your body. 'If you're trying to save space, the blow-up ones are great, but I prefer the comfy ones that you can button around your luggage," she says. 'Especially if you're in the middle of a three seater — you need the extra support." Huynh also recommends that travellers bring other things to help with comfort, such as a back pillow or seat cushion, especially for longer flights. 'People keep saying that the airplane seat cushions have gotten thinner and thinner, the materials less comfy,' she says. 'You want to be as comfortable as you are in your home.' This memory foam neck pillow can be packed in a compact carrying case for easy transport. This gel seat cushion is great for long trips and perfect to help with lower back, sciatic or tailbone pain. Temperatures can fluctuate on planes, which can be particularly uncomfortable for travellers who may be more sensitive to temperature changes. With this in mind, Huynh recommends travelling with something versatile you can cozy up in, such as a blanket scarf. 'if you don't want to bring a blanket, I see a lot of people bringing blanket scarves,' she says. 'I think it's a really good idea.' Another option she recommends? A lightweight cardigan. Read more travel articles on Yahoo: I hiked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu — 23 hiking essentials I packed to travel Peru's Amazon and the Andes I travel a lot — 34 carry-on bag essentials I never get on a plane without Is Monos worth it? I travelled with $1,180 worth of Monos luggage on dozens of flights — here's my honest review 'It doesn't matter if you're going to a hot destination, 100 per cent you want a sweater for the plane,' she says, noting that the cabin can get quite cold. This blanket scarf can be worn in a variety of ways, and reviewers say it's "cozy." This ribbed cardigan is lightweight, comes in multiple colours and has an easy, loose fit. Speaking of fluctuating temperatures, if you're someone who tends to overheat — or if you're just travelling somewhere hot — a pocket-sized fan is a great essential to have on hand. 'I like a handheld fan, those rechargeable ones,' says Huynh. 'I carry those around too.' She also says that most planes now have a compatible charger, so you can make sure you don't run out of juice. This rechargeable travel fan has multiple speeds and is compact enough to keep in a purse or small bag. It's a good idea to bring along painkillers and other basic travel medication with you, especially if you're someone who has chronic pain. Whether you're travelling with Advil and Tums, or you're bringing along prescription medication, Huynh says a pill case can be very handy to have. 'You definitely want to bring your pills in your carry on, and those pill cases are very handy,' she says. Just make sure you have (or know) the instructions for how to take any medication you're bringing along with you. She also recommends labelling the pills - nwhich can also be helpful when going through security. This eight-compartment travel pill box comes with brand-name stickers as well as blank labels you can use to keep things organized. While earphones for a flight may be a given, Huynh specifically recommends travelling with a pair that has an audio jack, which she says many travellers often forget about. 'A lot of people either only have AirPods or bluetooth headphones with USB-C output,' she says. 'Not all airplanes have that. So if you want to watch movies or listen to music on the screen in front of your chair, you need earphones with an audio jack.' These headphones have a universal analog audio jack and come with a carrying case. Leg swelling, caused by fluid buildup, is common for older adults and can be exacerbated by sitting too long. While getting up and moving around can help, that's not always doable on a plane. You can also consider compression socks or stockings, which can help to improve blood flow and decrease pain and swelling in the legs. "A lot of people don't realize how much they're needed," says Huynh. "They're worth it." "If you're going on a flight for more than five hours, I would totally recommend it," she says. These compression socks can help to decrease swelling and come in a four pack. It might seem obvious, but it's an important one. As adults age, drinking enough water is crucial — according to the U.S. National Council On Aging, dehydration is common among older adults. A reusable water bottle, then, is "100 per cent" a must-have when travelling says Huynh. Choosing a plastic version over a stainless steel bottle can also be easier for transporting, as it will be a lot lighter when full. "If you're bringing a water bottle, bring it empty and you can always refill it at the airport," she notes. This water bottle is made of BPA-free plastic, so it won't be too heavy in your bag. It also has a leak-proof flip top so you don't have to worry about spills. Huynh says she likes to bring along a foldable backpack for additional storage when she travels — which can be especially useful if you find it difficult to carry a single heavy bag. Huynh recommnds "one of those 20 litre-30 litre backpacks that folds into a bag," she says. "It packs up really small, in case I need to bring it anywhere. It's nice that it's compact." A foldable backpack can be a great item to have on hand if you find yourself needing some extra space in your luggage. It's also handy for using as you travel around in your destination. This backpack has multiple compartments to keep things organized, and folds into a packable bag. Sun protection is important at any age, but you'll definitely want to make sure you have some when you're 35,000 feet up in the air and sitting in a window seat. "Most people going on vacation, they're most likely not going anywhere cold," says Huynh. "Even then, the sun's always shining." She notes that if you are bringing sunscreen with you, make sure it fits within the limits of allowed liquids in your carry on luggage, or you'll have to keep it in your checked bag. This SPF 50+ sunscreen by La Roche Posay is unscented with an invisible finish, perfect for wearing on its own or under makeup.
