How Has Quora Evolved from 2017 to 2021: A Personal Journey and Insights

As a Quora user for the past four years, I have witnessed remarkable changes on this platform. Starting as a complete newbie in 2017, I have seen a shift from a curiosity-driven community to one driven by commercial interests. Here, I will outline the significant differences between Quora in 2017 and 2021, based on my personal experiences and observations.

The Birth of Quora Partnership Program (QPP)

Back in 2017, Quora was a place where users asked and answered questions purely out of curiosity and a desire to learn. There was no concept of the Quora Partnership Program (QPP), which was introduced in 2021. People asked questions and wrote answers without the intention of earning money. Instead, they aimed to engage with the community and share valuable insights.

Impact on Question Quality

The change in the ecosystem has had a notable impact on the quality of questions. In 2017, questions were more meaningful and varied. Nowadays, scrolling through my feed, I often encounter questions that seem trivial, such as 'Can you share some screenshots which deserve 100k upvotes.' These questions not only diminish the overall quality but also contribute to a lower engagement level.

Transformation in User Experience

From Hobby to Addiction

In 2017, spending time on Quora was purely a leisure activity for me. However, by 2021, reading and answering questions had become an addiction. The platform has evolved into a space where commercial interests take precedence over genuine interactions and learning.

The Rise of Spaces

Another significant change is the introduction of Spaces. While these provide a platform for users to share their interests, they also add to the complex structure of the community. The personal Space I created, 'The World of Fiction,' highlights how users are now crafting niche areas within the Quora ecosystem.

Evolution of User Roles and Economy

From 'Batsman' to 'Question Creator'

My role on Quora has also shifted over the years. In 2017, I was a prolific answer writer, gathering around 200 to 250 new followers daily. However, in 2021, I have taken a different approach, focusing on asking questions. This change reflects the shift in the platform's economy and the evolving roles of its users.

Impact on Income and Community

Financially, I have seen a substantial change. In 2017, my income from Quora was nonexistent. By 2021, I earn between 75 to 90 dollars a month from QPP, down from an average of 330 in 2019. Similarly, the number of followers I gain has dropped significantly, from an average of 200 to 250 new followers daily to just 10 to 20 new followers per day.

Ranking and Web Presence

Quora's global ranking has also declined. In 2017, it ranked around 50, whereas as of 2021, it has fallen to perhaps beyond 250. This drop reflects the platform's changing focus and the shift in user interests and behavior.

Language Accessibility

In 2017, Quora was not available in any Indian languages. By 2021, it supports Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam. This expansion in language support has made Quora more accessible to a broader audience in India.

Conclusion

The evolution of Quora from 2017 to 2021 has been significant, marked by changes in user behavior, quality of content, and the economic drivers of the platform. As a user, I have had to adapt to these shifts while continuing to contribute to the platform in my own unique way.