Advice for Building in AI: Towards the Curator Economy

Advice for Building in AI: Towards the Curator Economy

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful tool for solving complex customer problems. It has opened up new possibilities and opportunities for businesses across various industries. However, amidst the excitement surrounding AI, it is important to remember that the same fundamental dynamics of building a successful business still apply. AI technology alone is not enough to create a sustainable advantage. So, where does real power and durability come from?

Economies of scale, network effects, counter-positioning, switching costs, brand value - these are the sources that have always driven success in business. While AI can certainly enhance these factors, it is not a standalone solution. The key is to leverage AI as a raw ingredient to amplify and optimize existing business models rather than relying on it as a moat. AI technology is not exclusive to any one company and can be adopted by competitors, making it crucial to focus on other sources of competitive advantage.

It is important to distinguish between growth and hype when it comes to AI. Growth is the real measure of success, while hype can often lead to misguided decisions and wasted resources. Don't get caught up in the hype surrounding AI. Instead, focus on tangible growth opportunities and how AI can enable and support those goals.

When it comes to building in AI, it is crucial to prioritize execution and attention to detail. Excellence in anything is mostly about working hard and getting a lot of small details right. The "big idea" may be the starting point, but how that idea unfolds through meticulous execution is what truly matters. AI commentators may discuss alignment, defensibility, and AGI, but builders focus on practical considerations like where to buy cheap GPUs. Execution is exponential, and the ability to execute well will ultimately determine the success of AI initiatives.

In parallel with the rise of AI, we are witnessing the emergence of the curator economy. This concept involves the democratization of human content curation, where individuals play a crucial role in filtering and contextualizing information. Human content curation goes beyond algorithms and involves smart, insightful contextualization of shared content. This can be achieved through highlights, notes, and comments, providing a more meaningful and valuable experience for consumers.

Content curation is an efficient way to find quality information on specific topics. In an era of information overload, content curation helps us avoid going down the internet rabbit hole and surface with valuable insights. By following experienced curators who know where they're going, we can save time, avoid deceitful information, and find the information we need more easily. Working with curated data that serves our purpose allows us to flatten the learning curve and make more informed decisions.

In conclusion, building in AI requires a focus on the core principles of business success while leveraging AI as a tool to enhance existing models. Prioritize execution and attention to detail, understanding that the "big idea" is just the beginning. Additionally, embrace the curator economy and the value of human content curation in navigating the overwhelming amount of information available. By following experienced curators, we can save time and find the information we need more efficiently. Remember, the key to success lies in combining the power of AI with the tried-and-true principles of business excellence.