Thinking through AI as the next new platform opportunity - Version One: Legacy and AI, two seemingly unrelated topics, but upon closer examination, they share a common thread - value creation. When we think about AI as the next big platform opportunity, we must consider the value that will be extracted and who will capture the new value being generated. Similarly, when we contemplate legacy, we reflect on the value we leave behind and the impact it has on future generations.

Thinking through AI as the next new platform opportunity - Version One: Legacy and AI, two seemingly unrelated topics, but upon closer examination, they share a common thread - value creation. When we think about AI as the next big platform opportunity, we must consider the value that will be extracted and who will capture the new value being generated. Similarly, when we contemplate legacy, we reflect on the value we leave behind and the impact it has on future generations.

In the world of AI platforms, history has shown that the platform providers often keep the lion's share of the value for themselves. Companies and developers building on top of these platforms are left with mere crumbs. However, as we look at the potential landscape of AI platforms, it becomes apparent that competition will play a significant role. OpenAI, Google, Facebook, and potentially more contenders are vying for a piece of the pie. This competition should limit the ability of a single company to monopolize profits at the expense of others. The value distribution might resemble the division of cloud computing between AWS, Azure, and GCP.

Now, let's shift our focus to legacy. Traditionally, legacy was seen as something left behind, a testament to one's existence. However, the concept has evolved. Legacy is no longer what we leave behind, but rather what we put in motion through our lives. Just as AI platforms determine how value is distributed, we have the power to determine the legacy we leave behind. Legacy is not confined to material possessions; it is about the impact we have on people's lives.

In both AI platforms and legacy, people hold the key. In the AI realm, companies like OpenAI, Google, and Facebook will leverage their vast user bases, unique data sets, and financial resources to gain an edge. This advantage is particularly evident in the consumer space. However, when it comes to enterprise software, there is an opening for start-ups to create value with vertical-specific AI products. By addressing industry-specific needs and designing interaction models that minimize friction and risk, start-ups can carve out their space in the AI landscape.

Similarly, in the context of legacy, it is people who matter the most. When we strip away the material possessions and worldly achievements, what remains is the impact we had on others. Legacy is not about the things we accumulate but about the lives we touch. It is about living purposefully and uplifting the lives of those around us. Just as AI platforms differentiate with unique data, legacy is differentiated by the love, kindness, and compassion we show to others.

So, how can we take action in these domains? In the realm of AI platforms, start-ups can focus on addressing industry-specific needs, leveraging proprietary data, and navigating regulatory and privacy constraints. By doing so, they can create value for their customers and compete against incumbents. In the realm of legacy, we must live each day with intention and purpose. We must prioritize relationships and invest in the things that truly matter. By doing so, we can create a lasting legacy that transcends material possessions and leaves a positive impact on future generations.

In conclusion, AI platforms and legacy may seem like disparate concepts, but they are interconnected through the creation and distribution of value. When contemplating AI as the next platform opportunity, we must consider who will capture the value and how it will be distributed. Similarly, when reflecting on legacy, we must recognize that it is not about what we leave behind, but the impact we have on people's lives. By taking actionable steps in both realms, whether in the AI landscape or in our everyday lives, we can shape a future where value is created and legacies are built.