Playing with AI?
When I was in college, I worked for a British toy company. It was one of a half dozen jobs I had to help put myself through school. As part of my responsibilities, I was expected to develop deep knowledge about the products and any educational or developmental benefits to help support sales. I was encouraged to play-test as often as possible to inform my experience with each toy.
Unsurprisingly, I played. A lot. The more I played, the more I learned, and the more sales I closed. When faced with an objection over the expense of a particular train set, my play-based knowledge enabled me to pivot to another toy better aligned with the customer’s need, like an interactive sing-along series. I learned through play and applied the knowledge later in a business context. And, say what you like, selling to children and parents in parallel is the very definition of a high-stakes situation!
I approach AI with that same play-testing mindset.
Lately, the quantity of offerings, information, and opinions about AI on offer is staggering. By all accounts, it will continue growing exponentially, too. There are gobs more articles, videos, opinion pieces, and thought-starters showing up on the daily.
In conversations with clients and colleagues, I see people investigating, predicting, or opining, with only a few choosing to go hands-on. Why is that I wonder?
“Because other people in our org. are looking into it.”
“Because we don’t yet have a policy covering its use.”
“Because it doesn’t apply to my role.”
“Because I’m just trying to hang on with what I’m already tasked with.”
“Because….”
Fair play (pun intended,) though developing the skills, understanding, thought processes, and perspective about AI now will be an advantage in leading the way forward when the time comes for your organization.
Are you on the sidelines or are you already playing? Let me know in the comments.