Substack Res-Stack (Oct 20-25)

AI Augmentation, Not Replacement: The overarching theme this week is that AI tools should be viewed as powerful allies, not threats, to human creativity. As I seek to be a prominent voice in the AI and design space, I use my platform to consistently emphasizes using AI to amplify human capabilities, not replace them. As I states in "AI's Role in the Future of Design":

"Companies and individuals must adapt to the evolving landscape, embracing AI to enhance workflows and unlock new creative possibilities."

Listen to the AI generated podcast that summarizes all the articles!

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1IaRMt4FgB4PxSi47NQ8gM

Strategic Integration & Skill Development: Successfully leveraging AI requires a strategic approach. This includes:

• Understanding the Right Tools
• Developing Prompt Engineering Skills
• Focusing on High-Value Tasks

AI's Impact on Workflows and Business Models: Another topic explored in these episodes is the impact AI can have on business models and workflows (particularly Creative Workflows!)

• Transforming Content Creation
• Personalizing learning
• Enhancing Customer Lifetime Value

Here is a summary (and links to) all of the Substack articles from October 20th-25th:

In this article, I break down Alex Hormozi's YouTube video "How to Make Your First Million". The article outlines Hormozi's step-by-step framework, emphasizing the importance of:

• Understanding your strengths and areas for growth.
• Creating a supportive environment.
• Mastering essential skills, particularly in sales and marketing.
• Staying focused and eliminating distractions.
• Targeting high-value clients and niching down.
• Utilizing the "Core Four" methods for lead generation: warm outreach, cold outreach, content creation, and paid advertising.
• Implementing the CLOSER sales framework for converting leads.
• Increasing customer lifetime value.
• Leveraging brand, people, skills, and media to scale your business.

As awesome as the Hormozi video breakdown was, the greatness of this article was pointing out that with AI and a creative workflow - we as creatives can RAMP up our knowledge growth. So, a better title for this article might be, "How to Make a Million With AI."

With my step-daughter attending a Taylor Swift concert, I was inspired to write this article, where I highlighted the importance of context in LinkedIn content strategy. The article emphasizes:

• The unique nature of LinkedIn as a professional network focused on business.
• The need to tailor content for a business audience seeking growth and solutions.
• Shifting from general "how-to" content to personal "how-I" content that showcases expertise and results.
• Prioritizing meaningful metrics that directly impact business goals.

Playing 'Devil's advocate' - in this article I explored the limitations of AI reasoning as suggested by a study from Apple engineers. The article discusses:

• The study's claim that AI models' reasoning abilities are brittle and unreliable.
• My own testing of different AI models (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini) using grade-school math word problems.
• The varying performance of these models, with Gemini exhibiting the most struggles.
• My observation that newer and more robust models may perform better, but their reasoning abilities still depend on the quality of their training data.

I discussed the importance of storytelling in AI video production. The article outlines a framework for creating compelling visual stories, emphasizing the need for:

• A clear understanding of the story's purpose, target audience, and desired emotional impact.
• Well-defined visual language and a detailed plan for each visual element.
• Prioritizing storytelling fundamentals over reliance on AI tools.

More is coming on this topic - soon! Don't miss the foundation article.

Here, I share my experience using Adobe Firefly's Generate Video (beta) feature. The article walks through his process of:

• Using reference images created in Midjourney.
• Exploring the general settings, camera options, and advanced settings in Firefly.
• Creating a short video using prompts and experimenting with different motion effects.
• Adding a soundtrack and sound effects to enhance the video.

In this post I explore Midjourney's new External Image Editor. The article details:

• The features of the editor, including the ability to expand, crop, repaint, and modify images.
• The phased rollout of the editor, initially available to select community groups.
• My walkthrough of using the editor to refine and enhance an image he took with his iPhone .
• The "Retexture" feature, which allows users to change the contents of an image while preserving its structure.

The article explores the anxieties surrounding AI in the design world, emphasizing the need to use AI tools effectively and ethically to enhance creativity, rather than replace it.

• Focuses on reactions to Adobe MAX 2024, where some attendees felt AI was overshadowing the artistry of design.
• I acknowledge the fear of design being reduced to prompt engineering but argues that innovation and artistry can coexist.
• I point out the historical parallels between current AI anxieties and earlier resistance to desktop publishing, suggesting adaptation is key.23
• The article highlights the problem of poorly used AI tools, advocating for thoughtful prompting based on design principles and storytelling (the “human element”).
• I argue that creativity relies on storytelling, emotion, and meaning, areas where human guidance is essential for effective AI use.

The article addresses concerns about AI training and creative ownership, emphasizing the need for ethical development, proper attribution, and industry standards. I conclude with a call for thoughtful discussion and action to ensure AI amplifies creative potential.

These articles collectively highlight the evolving capabilities and applications of AI, emphasizing the importance of combining AI tools with human creativity, strategy, and critical thinking. Recognize that I am stressing the importance of using AI to enhance, not replace, human skills and expertise across various domains, from business and marketing to visual storytelling and personalized learning.