Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the way we build and market products. However, as a product leader, I am simply amazed by the next generation of AI, generative AI, and how it is set to revolutionize the industry even further. It used to be that faster new computer chips or new monitor resolutions were the attraction of my awe. But now, we seem to be at a place where the promise of learning computers that can GENERATE valuable content are a reality, and is truly mind-blowing how transformative this can be to our professional and personal lives.
Generative AI is a type of AI that can create content or products by itself, without being explicitly programmed to do so. It uses machine learning algorithms to analyze and understand large sets of data, and then generates new content based on that understanding. This is in contrast to traditional AI, which relies on humans to input data and tell it what to do with that data.
One way generative AI will transform the software product design process is by automating the creation of prototypes.
Traditionally, designers would have to create prototypes manually, which is time-consuming and can be expensive. However, with generative AI, designers can input parameters such as user needs, design principles, and constraints, and the AI will generate hundreds of designs that meet those requirements. This process will save time and money, while also allowing for more experimentation and innovation in the design process.
I was recently talking with a friend and former colleague at a large construction software company about how technology can be built into products. He described how the ability to interact with technology via conversational AI will transform the UI/UX design process. No longer will it be about figuring out how few clicks it takes to get a user to the setting or feature they need. Instead, the users will simply ask the software to do something using natural language, such as create a construction estimate, and, with AI, the system will understand the context and automatically go through the entire set of steps of creating the desired result without the need for direct human interaction.
ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI, is an example of how generative AI can be used in software products. ChatGPT can generate human-like text responses to user input, which can be used in chatbots, virtual assistants, and other applications. This technology is transforming the way we interact with software products, as it allows for more natural and intuitive communication between humans and machines. In fact, much of this website was created with assistance from generative AI tools: ChatGPT reviewed and edited much of the written content and Midjourney was invaluable in creating new images that matched my vision. At Hownd, I recently started using ChatGPT to create the first draft of new business content and blog articles customized for the unique needs of our business and customers. (Here’s a blog post example).
Midjourney is another example of how generative AI can be used in the software product design process. Midjourney is a generative design tool that allows designers to create 3D models using AI. The tool uses machine learning algorithms to analyze user inputs, such as design requirements and constraints, and then generates hundreds of potential designs that meet those requirements. This allows designers to quickly iterate on designs and come up with innovative solutions that they may not have otherwise considered.
Conversational AI is an emerging technology that uses artificial intelligence to create software systems that can communicate with humans using natural language. It encompasses a wide range of applications, including chatbots, virtual assistants, and voice-controlled devices. We all know some of the main companies in the conversational AI market, including Amazon (with their Alexa virtual assistant), Google (with Google Assistant), Microsoft (with Cortana), and Apple (with Siri). These companies are investing heavily in conversational AI research and development, and their products are becoming increasingly sophisticated and capable of understanding and responding to a wide range of user requests and queries. The conversational AI market is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, with new applications and use cases emerging as the technology evolves.
In addition to transforming the product design process, generative AI will also transform the way software products are marketed. With the ability to generate large amounts of content quickly and easily, generative AI will allow companies to create more personalized marketing campaigns. For example, a company could use generative AI to generate personalized product descriptions or social media posts that are tailored to individual users.
It is clear that generative AI is set to transform the way software products are designed and marketed. It will automate the product design process, allowing for more experimentation and innovation, and allow companies to create more personalized marketing campaigns. ChatGPT and Midjourney are just two examples of how generative AI can be used in software products, and I am excited to see what other innovations will come from this technology in the future.
Next time, I’ll write about how generative AI will impact our personal lives. (My daughter is in the animation and digital arts program at USC School of Cinematic Arts, so AI and art have been part of our discussions as she contemplates her future career).
