March 19th, 2025

Why Building Community is the SECRET to Project Success! Interview with Anndy Lian X Eddy Gonzalez

Why Building Community is the SECRET to Project Success! Interview with Anndy Lian X Eddy Gonzalez

At Consensus 2025 in Hong Kong, Eddy Gonzalez, a Taiwan-based YouTuber, sat down with Anndy Lian, a renowned blockchain expert, best-selling author, to discuss the critical role of community in project success. The interview, titled “Why Building Community is the SECRET to Project Success!”, offered profound insights into the importance of community-driven strategies in the blockchain and Web3 space.

The Foundation of Success: Community

Anndy Lian opened the conversation with a powerful statement: “If you are a project owner trying to build a big project, you have to focus on community. And if you are an investor, please invest in projects that are sustainable.” This set the tone for the discussion, emphasizing that community is not just a marketing tool but the backbone of any successful venture in the blockchain ecosystem.

Lian elaborated on the shift from traditional marketing to community-driven approaches, stating, “In Web3, the community is not just an audience; it’s the backbone of every project. Unlike traditional marketing, where brands talk at consumers, Web3 thrives on co-creation and shared ownership. Communities are the ones who breathe life into projects, and their engagement can make or break a venture.” This sentiment underscores the transformative power of communities in the decentralized world.

The Evolution of Blockchain and Community

Reflecting on his journey in the blockchain space, Lian shared how he first encountered Bitcoin in 2013, primarily for transactional purposes. “Back then, I didn’t fully understand what Bitcoin could do, but I saw its potential for anonymous transactions in the advertising industry,” he recalled. Over time, his involvement deepened, and he became a key advisor to governments and a vocal advocate for blockchain technology.

Lian highlighted the importance of authenticity and transparency in building trust within communities. “People can sense when a project is genuine. At OG Peanut, we prioritize open communication and honesty. If we make a mistake, we own up to it and involve the community in finding solutions. This builds credibility and strengthens our bond with members,” he explained. This approach fosters loyalty and long-term engagement, which are crucial for project sustainability.

Challenges in Community Building

While the benefits of community-driven marketing are undeniable, Lian also addressed the challenges associated with it. He pointed out the difficulty of scaling community engagement as projects grow. “As your community expands, maintaining the same level of personal connection becomes challenging. At OG Peanut, we’ve had to invest in tools and processes to ensure that every member feels heard, even as our numbers grow,” he shared.

Another challenge is managing toxic behavior within communities. “Not all community members have positive intentions. We’ve had to implement strict moderation policies to prevent harassment and misinformation. Balancing openness with safety is a delicate act, but it’s crucial for maintaining a healthy community,” Lian explained. This highlights the need for robust governance structures to ensure a positive and inclusive environment.

The Role of AI in Community Engagement

The conversation also touched on the impact of AI on community interactions. Lian shared his experience testing AI agents, including one that cloned a friend of his. “The AI agent was incredibly smooth and almost indistinguishable from the real person. It’s a powerful tool, but it’s also a bit scary,” he noted. While AI can enhance community engagement, Lian emphasized the importance of maintaining genuine human connections. “AI is a good utility for projects, but it should supplement, not replace, real human interaction,” he advised.

Lian also highlighted the limitations of AI in handling volatile data. “AI agents struggle with up-to-date information, especially in fast-changing markets like cryptocurrency. Simple conversations are fine, but when it comes to real-time data, they fall short,” he explained. This underscores the need for a balanced approach, leveraging AI for efficiency while ensuring that human oversight remains central.

The Future of Community-Driven Marketing

Looking ahead, Lian expressed optimism about the continued evolution of community-driven marketing. “As technology advances, we’ll have even more tools to connect with and empower our communities. The key will be staying true to our values and prioritizing the human element,” he said. This vision aligns with the ethos of Web3, where decentralization and inclusivity are key principles.

Lian also emphasized the importance of sustainability in project development. “If you are a project owner, please work hard for your project. A lot of project owners are not focused, and that’s a big problem. To build a big project, you have to focus on community,” he advised. For investors, he recommended prioritizing projects that demonstrate long-term viability and a strong commitment to their communities.

Key Takeaways

The interview with Anndy Lian offered valuable insights into the role of communities as the secret to project success in the Web3 era. Key takeaways include:

Authenticity and Transparency: Building trust through open communication and honesty is essential for fostering loyal communities.
Scalability and Governance: As communities grow, maintaining personal connections and implementing robust governance structures are critical challenges.
The Role of AI: AI can enhance community engagement but should supplement, not replace, genuine human interaction.
Sustainability: Project owners must focus on building sustainable projects, and investors should prioritize ventures with long-term viability.
Education and Safety: Newcomers to the blockchain space should take the time to educate themselves and prioritize safety in their investments.

Anndy Lian’s insights underscore the transformative potential of communities in the blockchain space, offering a roadmap for projects looking to harness this powerful marketing tool. As the industry continues to evolve, the principles of authenticity, transparency, and sustainability will remain central to building successful and impactful projects.

For those interested in learning more from Anndy Lian, he can be found on Twitter and his personal website, where he regularly shares valuable insights and advice on blockchain and community building.

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

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September 30th, 2024

Exclusive Interview with Anndy Lian: The Power of Crypto Conventions

Exclusive Interview with Anndy Lian: The Power of Crypto Conventions

The world of crypto is dynamic—innovation knows no bounds and relationships often start with nothing more than a username and an avatar, the role of physical interaction cannot be overstated. Enter Anndy Lian, a seasoned intergovernmental blockchain expert, speaker, author, and investor.

Known for his ability to bridge the gap between traditional industries and the digital frontier, Lian has spent years navigating the complexities of blockchain, government policies, and crypto communities. With his unique vantage point on crypto conventions, Lian shed light on how these gatherings serve as more than just networking hubs—they are catalysts for knowledge sharing, community building, and shaping the future of the decentralized world.

In this exclusive interview, Lian walked The Shib through his experiences, offered advice for making the most of these conventions, and delved into the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for the crypto community.

The Shib: What are the most effective strategies for networking at crypto conventions?

Lian: “Navigating the crowded halls of a crypto convention can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can maximize your networking potential. Don’t be afraid to initiate conversations – a simple ‘Hi, I’m interested in your work on…’ can spark a valuable connection. Come prepared with concise, engaging talking points about your own projects or interests. Be precise and straight forward is key. Business cards are still relevant, not for me, do consider using a QR code linking to your online portfolio or LinkedIn profile for a modern touch. Remember, genuine engagement is key – focus on building relationships rather than just collecting contacts.”

The Shib: Success Stories, Can you share examples of successful connections made at crypto conferences?

Lian: “Countless success stories have emerged from chance encounters at crypto conferences. Early Bitcoin adopters often reminisce about meeting at small meetups, long before the mainstream spotlight. These gatherings fostered a sense of community and led to collaborations that shaped the industry. More recently, developers have found their dream teams at hackathons held during these events, while startups have secured funding from investors they met during panel discussions. These stories highlight the power of serendipity and underscore the value of active participation in the crypto community.”

The Shib: Can you share examples of successful connections made at crypto conferences?

Lian: “The educational offerings at crypto conventions are invaluable for staying ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving space. Expert-led talks provide deep dives into specific blockchain technologies, regulatory landscapes, and emerging trends. Workshops offer hands-on learning experiences, allowing you to explore new tools and development frameworks. Panel discussions bring together diverse perspectives on key industry issues, sparking debate and fostering critical thinking. Whether you’re seeking technical knowledge or strategic insights, these educational opportunities can accelerate your understanding of the crypto ecosystem.”

The Shib: What are the most valuable aspects of attending talks, workshops, and panel discussions at crypto conventions?

Lian: “Crypto conventions are a whirlwind of information, and staying updated on the latest developments can feel like chasing a moving target. One effective strategy is to focus on specific areas of interest, whether it’s DeFi, NFTs, or Web3 gaming. Follow thought leaders and projects in those fields on social media (especially on X and Youtube) and engage in online communities. Many conventions also offer post-event access to recordings of talks and presentations, allowing you to revisit key insights and catch up on sessions you may have missed. Remember, continuous learning is essential in the ever-evolving world of crypto.”

The Shib: How can attendees actively participate in community-building activities at conventions?

Lian: “Crypto conventions are more than just conferences; they’re opportunities to become part of a vibrant and supportive community. Active participation is key to building lasting connections. Don’t hesitate to join informal gatherings, workshops, and networking events. Share your own insights and experiences during Q&A sessions, and be open to collaborating on projects with fellow attendees. Remember, the relationships you build within the crypto community can be just as valuable as the knowledge you gain.”

The Shib: What are some challenges and opportunities in building and maintaining a strong crypto community?

Lian: “Building a thriving crypto community presents both exciting opportunities and unique challenges. One challenge is navigating the rapid pace of innovation and the constant influx of new projects and ideas. It’s crucial to foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptation, embracing new technologies while staying grounded in core principles. Another challenge is combating misinformation and scams, which can erode trust and hinder adoption. By promoting transparency, responsible education, and critical thinking, the community can create a safer and more inclusive space for everyone.”

Over the years, crypto conventions have become more than mere networking venues—they are the lifeblood of the community, incubators of innovation, and a platform for shared learning. As Lian illustrated, success at these events comes not just from making contacts, but from forging meaningful connections, staying informed, and contributing to the community’s growth. As the crypto world continues to evolve, conventions remain pivotal in driving both individual and collective progress.

About The Expert

Anndy Lian is a blockchain expert, speaker, author, and investor with a deep understanding of the crypto and blockchain sectors. He has provided advisory to governments and public-listed companies across various industries, and he currently serves as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization. Known for his pivotal roles in not-for-profit and intergovernmental organizations, Lian is a champion of national digitization efforts and a driving force in blockchain innovation across Asia. He is also the author of Blockchain Revolution 2030 and NFT: From Zero to Hero.

Source: https://news.shib.io/2024/09/18/exclusive-interview-with-anndy-lian-the-power-of-crypto-conventions/

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

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September 10th, 2024

Shaping the Future of DevPortals: An Exclusive Interview with Anndy Lian

Shaping the Future of DevPortals: An Exclusive Interview with Anndy Lian

DevPortals are the hidden gems of the software development landscape providing developers with essential tools and resources. But as technology rapidly evolves, these platforms must adapt to stay relevant.

In this exclusive interview, we explore the future of DevPortals with Anndy Lian, a leading expert in blockchain and decentralized technologies. Lian offers valuable insights into how blockchain, AI, and the metaverse can transform these platforms, creating more secure, transparent, and inclusive environments for developers.

Decentralized DevPortals

The Shib: How can blockchain technology be leveraged to create more secure, transparent, and community-driven dev portals, while addressing potential challenges like scalability and governance?

Lian: “Imagine a world where developers and users collaborate on a global, transparent platform, their contributions immutably recorded and their ownership clearly defined. This is the promise of decentralized DevPortals, a radical shift from centralized platforms. By leveraging blockchain technology, we can reimagine these spaces as secure and community-driven ecosystems.

Blockchain’s inherent security features, like cryptographic hashing and consensus mechanisms, can safeguard valuable code and data within the DevPortal. Transparency, another cornerstone of blockchain, allows for auditable contribution histories, building trust and accountability within the community. This can empower developers by recognizing their contributions and enabling new incentive models.

However, challenges remain. Scalability, a known hurdle for blockchain applications, needs careful consideration to ensure the DevPortal can handle a growing number of users and projects. Governance, too, requires a nuanced approach. Decentralized governance models, while powerful, need to be thoughtfully designed to prevent malicious actors from hijacking the platform and to ensure fair and inclusive decision-making. Perhaps a hybrid approach, combining the best of centralized and decentralized governance, could provide a balanced solution.”

AI Assistants in DevPortals

The Shib: Beyond code suggestions and troubleshooting, how can AI assistants be integrated into dev portals to provide personalized learning paths, predict developer needs, or even facilitate peer-to-peer collaboration? What are the ethical considerations and potential biases to be mindful of when implementing AI in such a context?

Lian: “AI assistants hold immense potential to transform DevPortals from mere repositories of information into dynamic, personalized learning and collaboration hubs. Imagine an AI assistant that tracks your progress on a project, anticipates your needs for specific libraries or frameworks, and even connects you with peers possessing the expertise you require. Such intelligent assistance could significantly accelerate the development process and empower developers to tackle increasingly complex challenges.

This vision comes with ethical responsibilities. AI algorithms, trained on vast datasets of code and user interactions, can inherit and even amplify existing biases within those datasets. This could lead to unfair recommendations, skewed code suggestions, or even exclusion of certain developer demographics. Transparency is paramount. Developers need clear insights into how AI assistants make decisions, ensuring fairness and accountability. Data privacy is another crucial concern. The collection and usage of developer data must be transparent and consensual, with robust security measures in place to prevent misuse. Striking a balance between personalization and privacy will be key to fostering trust in AI-powered DevPortals.”

DevPortal Interoperability

The Shib: What standards or protocols can be adopted to ensure seamless integration between different dev portals, promoting collaboration and data sharing while maintaining security and privacy? How can we address potential challenges like vendor lock-in and differing technical architectures?

Lian: “To achieve seamless DevPortal interoperability, we need to consider existing standards like RESTful APIs for communication and standardized data formats like JSON for exchanging information between platforms. Think of it like building bridges between islands, allowing developers to move freely and share resources.

Vendor lock-in, where platforms are designed to keep users confined within their ecosystems, is a major concern. To counter this, we need to advocate for open standards and protocols, preventing any single vendor from controlling the flow of data and collaboration.

Data security and privacy are paramount. When platforms share information, ensuring the security of sensitive code and user data is crucial. Implementing robust encryption methods and access control mechanisms will be essential to maintain trust and integrity.

Differing technical architectures can also hinder interoperability. Platforms might use different programming languages, databases, or frameworks, making seamless integration a complex task. One solution could be developing adapter layers or middleware that translate between these different architectures, allowing them to communicate effectively.

By addressing these challenges, we can unlock a future where DevPortals seamlessly connect, fostering a thriving ecosystem of collaboration and innovation. Imagine developers effortlessly moving between platforms, accessing a wealth of resources and expertise, and contributing to projects regardless of their chosen DevPortal. This interconnected future holds the potential to accelerate software development, break down silos, and empower developers to build better software, together.”

The Metaverse in DevPortals

The Shib: Beyond immersive experiences and virtual communities, how can the metaverse be leveraged to create new revenue streams or business models for dev portals? What are the potential challenges and limitations of integrating the metaverse into existing dev portal infrastructure?

Lian: “The metaverse offers DevPortals more than just virtual spaces for developers to connect. Imagine a world where developers use VR/AR to collaboratively debug code, manipulating 3D data structures and stepping through program execution in immersive ways. Picture virtual marketplaces within these DevPortal metaverses, where developers buy and sell code libraries, tools, and even 3D assets, creating new revenue streams for both the platform and the creators.

These immersive experiences and virtual marketplaces present exciting monetization opportunities. DevPortals could introduce subscription models for premium VR/AR collaboration tools or charge commissions on transactions within their virtual marketplaces. Virtual events, like hackathons or conferences hosted in the metaverse, could generate revenue through ticket sales, sponsorships, and even virtual merchandise.”

DevPortal Accessibility and Inclusivity

The Shib: How can dev portals be designed to accommodate developers with disabilities, ensuring that they have equal access to resources and opportunities? What are the best practices for creating inclusive communities within dev portals, promoting diversity and preventing discrimination?

Lian: “Building truly inclusive DevPortals requires a conscious effort to make them accessible and welcoming to everyone, including developers with disabilities. This begins with incorporating accessibility features directly into the platform’s design. For visually impaired developers, screen reader compatibility is crucial. This means using semantic HTML to structure content logically, providing alternative text descriptions for all images and graphics, and ensuring that all functionality is accessible through keyboard navigation.

For developers with motor impairments, keyboard accessibility is paramount. Every interactive element on the DevPortal, from buttons and menus to code editors and search bars, should be navigable and operable using only the keyboard. Additionally, offering adjustable font sizes and customizable color schemes can benefit users with visual impairments or those with specific learning differences.

Beyond these technical considerations, fostering an inclusive community is equally important. Clear and enforced community guidelines that explicitly prohibit discrimination and harassment are essential. Moderation strategies should be proactive in identifying and addressing harmful behavior. Furthermore, DevPortals can promote diversity by featuring content and contributions from developers from underrepresented backgrounds, organizing events and initiatives that celebrate diversity, and providing resources and support for marginalized communities within the tech industry.”

Emerging Technologies and DevPortals

The Shib: How will technologies like quantum computing, edge computing, and augmented reality impact the development and use of dev portals? What new opportunities and challenges will these technologies present, and how can dev portals adapt to stay relevant and competitive in the future?

Lian: “Emerging technologies present a future where DevPortals are gateways to quantum computing power, edge computing deployments, and augmented reality development environments. Imagine developers accessing quantum simulators and algorithms, seamlessly deploying and managing applications on edge devices, and using AR for interactive code visualization and collaboration, all through the DevPortal.

However, this future requires DevPortals to adapt. Providing educational resources and tools to bridge the skills gap in areas like quantum computing is crucial. Investing in robust infrastructure, including high-performance computing and secure edge networks, is paramount. Equally important is implementing robust security measures to protect user data and code within these new environments.

To stay relevant, DevPortals can partner with leading technology companies to integrate these advancements into their platforms. Offering educational resources, fostering communities dedicated to these technologies, and implementing features gradually based on user feedback will be key. By embracing these opportunities and challenges, DevPortals can empower developers to shape the future of software development.”

Anndy Lian’s insights offer a compelling vision for the future of DevPortals. By leveraging blockchain, AI, and the metaverse, these platforms can become even more powerful tools for developers.

Source: https://news.shib.io/2024/09/04/shaping-the-future-of-devportals-an-exclusive-interview-with-anndy-lian/

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

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