Om Malik

Explore the life and work of Om Malik — Indian-American technology writer, blogger, entrepreneur, and investor. Learn about his journey from New Delhi to founding Gigaom, his writings, philosophy, and enduring impact in tech media.

Introduction

Om Prakash Malik (born September 29, 1966) is a prominent Indian-American writer and tech commentator known for founding Gigaom, one of the pioneering technology blogs. His work spans deep insights on internet infrastructure, media, innovation, and the tensions between business and technology.

This article examines his background, career arc, thought leadership, key writings, and lessons from his journey.

Early Life, Education & Background

Om Malik was born in New Delhi, India, into a middle-class family.

He graduated from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi (affiliated with Delhi University) in 1986 with an honors degree in chemistry.

Although his academic training was in a scientific field, Malik’s instincts leaned toward writing and media. He reoriented his path toward journalism and technology commentary, a decision that would shape his career.

Career & Achievements

Early Journalism & Transition into Tech

After college, Malik began his professional life in journalism, writing lifestyle and general interest features in New Delhi with outlets such as VP Fun, Newsmen Features, and others. London, then to New York City in 1993, writing for India Abroad and Forbes.

At Forbes, Malik was part of early web journalism efforts, which exposed him to the emerging intersection of media and technology. Red Herring, where he concentrated on telecommunications and internet sectors.

In 2001, he launched Gigaom, writing and curating technology news and commentary.

Malik also authored a book, Broadbandits: Inside the $750 Billion Telecom Heist, published in 2003, analyzing financial misconduct and bubbles in the telecom industry.

He officially left Gigaom in 2014.

Today, Malik is a venture partner at True Ventures and continues writing and investing in tech.

Philosophy & Writing Style

Malik sees technology not merely as gadgets or code but as human systems, communication, and infrastructure. His writing often merges technical insight with historical context, critical inquiry, and a layered understanding of business dynamics.

He has described himself as writing meditations on technology, science, future, life, and photography on his personal site. His broad perspective gives him room to explore beyond narrow “tech news.”

His style is thoughtful, deliberate, and often skeptical of hype. He aims for durability and depth rather than chasing trends.

Notable Writings & Contributions

• Gigaom blog — Original coverage on topics such as cloud computing, infrastructure, media disruption, mobile evolution, and internet economics.

• Book: Broadbandits — A critical look at the telecom bubble and the financial machinations behind it.

• Early coverage of Twitter — Malik is credited with one of the first media articles on Twitter, recognizing its potential early.

• Personal essays & blog — On his own site, he writes longer reflections on culture, privacy, architecture of networks, photography, and society.

Challenges & Turning Points

One major turning point was in December 2007, when Malik suffered a heart attack at age 41. He later indicated this forced a reassessment of health and priorities.

He also navigated the challenging economics of running a content business—Gigaom’s financial difficulties forced him to eventually step back, highlighting the tension between journalistic mission and sustainability.

Legacy & Influence

• Pioneer of tech blogging: Gigaom is often cited among the first influential tech blogs that bridged journalism and web commentary.

• Bridge between media & venture: Malik’s transition into VC/investing reflects how deep domain expertise can evolve into shaping future startups.

• Mentor & voice: Many writers, analysts, and entrepreneurs cite his work, perspective, and model as inspiration.

• Model of longevity: Despite shifts in media and technology, Malik has maintained relevance by evolving, not just chasing trends.

Lessons from Om Malik’s Journey

1. Follow instinct, not formula
   Though his degree was in chemistry, he chose writing and technology—an unconventional shift that paid off.

2. Write with depth, not for immediacy
   His lasting essays and analyses often outlive instant commentary.

3. Balance mission and business realities
   Running a media venture is fraught; sustainability must be built in.

4. Health & life matter
   His health scare reminds creators that longevity requires more than ambition.

5. Adapt & evolve
   Transitioning from journalist to blogger to investor, Malik shows how one can shift roles while retaining core identity.