When I got my first car, I couldn’t wait to open the bonnet and understand how things worked. That’s been my approach to life ever since. When I heard of computers being used in design and marketing, I had to get my hands on one and see how it could help in business. As the internet first intruded into commercial life, I was there, learning coding and building my first websites.
Throughout my business career, I’ve never felt comfortable with activities that I didn’t have at least a basic understanding of how they work, and what they can offer.
As an adviser to business owners, I would never suggest using an approach that I did not fully understand. So, with the rapid development of AI, I had to get my hands dirty and dig in. Two years later, and after exploring many tunnels and rabbit holes the only thing I can say with certainty, is that I have dirty hands. I’ve learned a great deal, but the more I’ve learned, the more that is developed.
So, I have learned that AI is a process, and far from being an automated process, it’s currently a social process. People from all walks of life are studying, experimenting, exploring and sharing how AI functions, and what it can do for them. A huge body of knowledge is growing – and AI itself is accelerating that growth.
My advice is to get involved in AI. Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty. You don’t have to rely on secondhand experience. The beauty of AI is that the basics are very accessible. Learn and enjoy.
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