Interpretation & Emulation

Which should your work do?

Emulation is where we try to match – or surpass – precisely that which has gone before us. We observe what has been, recreate the result by the same means, in hope of achieving equal or better results. For example, a product that sells widgets to a particular demographic could be emulated through mimicking of operations and process in order to reach those same people in a similar way.

Interpretation is where we explain and take meaning from what has gone before us. We observe what has been, distill to principles, and respond with those in mind to continue that thought. For example, a product that fights for user privacy could inspire another level of user privacy products and services, thanks to the principles the first one followed.

Which should your work do?

Why not do both?