Contents
- What is a pet project?
- Why do specialists need pet projects?
- Benefits of pet projects for business
- Advantages and disadvantages of pet projects
- How companies can work with pet projects
What is a pet project?
A pet project is a small personal project that can be created in any field, whether it is programming, design, or content writing. Such projects are often developed for portfolios or for personal enjoyment in one's free time. The formats of pet projects can vary — from programs and services to websites and educational materials.
For example, a developer might create their own game, while a designer might make a mockup of a fictional website. Additionally, an experienced specialist might run a blog related to their profession. Companies are also starting to launch pet projects, which are often called side projects, to test ideas or attract new users. Interestingly, many well-known brands have emerged from such projects. An example is Twitter, which was originally just a sketch drawn on a piece of paper.
Why do specialists need pet projects?
There are several reasons why specialists should engage in pet projects:
- Skill improvement: Beginner specialists use pet projects to practice their skills, which allows them to be better prepared for real tasks at work.
- Portfolio creation: For many professions, such as design, having a portfolio is critically important. Pet projects can serve as a great addition to a portfolio, especially for newcomers who do not yet have real projects.
- Idea realization: Experienced specialists create pet projects to bring their ideas and interests to life, which sometimes leads to successful commercial projects.
- Experiments: Pet projects provide an opportunity to test new tools and solutions without the fear of failure.
- Development or monetization: Although the main goal of pet projects is not always monetization, some of them can evolve into successful startups or cult products.
Benefits of pet projects for business
Pet projects can also benefit companies:
- Application in HR: Having pet projects among potential employees allows for a better understanding of their skill level and approach to problem-solving.
- Creation of new directions: Companies can develop their own pet projects, which can grow into profitable ventures.
- Use in marketing: Pet projects can serve as an effective marketing tool, drawing attention to the main product.
Advantages and disadvantages of pet projects
Like any initiative, pet projects have their pros and cons:
- Advantages:
- The ability to experiment with new ideas and tools.
- Absence of strict deadlines and revisions, allowing for work at a comfortable pace.
- Broadening horizons and gaining new experiences.
- Disadvantages:
- Resource costs, especially time, which may be limited.
- Poor success prospects, as most pet projects remain just hobbies.
- Slow development, as work on the project takes place in free time.
How companies can work with pet projects
Companies can adopt various approaches to working with their employees' pet projects:
- Encouraging personal projects: For example, Google implemented the "20% rule," allowing employees to spend part of their work time on their projects.
- Creating side projects: Small companies can develop their own initiatives that can become profitable.
- Investing in external projects: Companies can develop interesting external projects that have the potential for successful monetization.