Google is about information and computers and making things really fast. Facebook is about the sharing and connections. These missions give these companies direction and motivation.

The quote "Google is about information and computers and making things really fast. Facebook is about the sharing and connections. These missions give these companies direction and motivation" by Paul Buchheit draws a distinction between the core missions of Google and Facebook. Buchheit, a prominent software engineer and one of the early developers of Gmail, is pointing out that Google's focus is on processing information quickly and efficiently, using its computing power to deliver results. In contrast, Facebook's focus is on fostering connections between people and enabling sharing of personal content and experiences.

In this quote, Buchheit emphasizes how the distinct missions of these two companies give them clear direction and motivation. Google is driven by its role as a search engine and information aggregator, prioritizing speed and accuracy in delivering results. On the other hand, Facebook centers around social interaction and communication, with its mission rooted in building networks and facilitating the sharing of user-generated content. The different focuses of these companies have shaped their development, products, and impact on the digital world.

The origin of the quote stems from Buchheit's experience working in the tech industry, particularly in the development of Google and later Facebook-related products. As someone who has worked with major tech companies, Buchheit is uniquely positioned to understand the distinct roles these companies play in shaping the modern internet. This quote reflects his insight into the goals and priorities that drive Google and Facebook, two of the most influential tech giants of the 21st century.

Ultimately, Buchheit's quote underscores the importance of a company’s mission in guiding its actions and shaping its impact on the world. While Google focuses on speed, efficiency, and the processing of information, Facebook emphasizes social interaction and connection. These differences not only define the products each company offers but also their respective roles in how we access and share information in the digital age.