Outsourcing to AI: The New Dependency

Everybody is trying to get attention with AI headlines. AI this. AI that. So, I guess I’m guilty in that vein. But I have something to say on the topic and if you got this far, I consider that a pretty good start.

So, the first question I have... Is AI dependency a good thing, bad thing, or inconsequential? Or none of the above. Or all the above. Some answers provided below.

First, I think we all understand that AI is already everywhere. Not leaving anytime soon. It may grow old and eventually be replaced (like some of us) down the road. But it’s here.

And even though we seem to be in the thick of it, the AI era is clearly in its infancy. Reminds me (and some of you, likely) of the early days of the Internet in the mid to late nineties. Over 30 years ago now.

Do I think that particular history is going to repeat itself. No... but yes. Meaning no, it won’t be the same, but the overarching principle will be. And that’s the evolution factor. All predictions aside… we didn’t know then and we don’t know now how it’s all going to unfold.

But for sure, there are more opinions than you can count, read, absorb, or even consider. More explanations. More courses, webinars, and books. And the funny thing is, a good portion of those are actually created by AI entirely or in part.

That brings me to my second question... Is AI the biggest drug of all?

It’s metaphorical, of course. But think about it. Are we not getting hooked? Are we not letting it take over in many ways? What kind of withdrawals would we suffer trying to leave it behind cold turkey? And is that possible in the business or professional world?

Don’t get me wrong. Truth is, I’ve been a big AI user for years like many others. I’m knee deep into it across a variety of disciplines. It’s changed everything. And it will continue to... change everything.

Which brings me to my third question... Will it change us and if so, how?

That’s actually my biggest concern. While I think the jury is still out, my strong belief is that, as with almost everything… it’s up to us. It’s how we think about it. How we use it. How we let it use us. Interpret that as you may… we’re all different. But I think that’s what it boils down to.

Whether you’re in the guitar business, or any other, you’ll have to make those determinations for yourself. But there’s something starting to happen that’s going to cause a bit of a shift. Maybe even a big shift.

The use of AI detection tools is increasing. I just saw yesterday that Substack had partnered with Pangram to integrate its AI text screening application across the platform. It’s already available more broadly for a fee. But I’m pretty sure that means that a lot of writers (and non-writers) are going to be (rightly or wrongly) identified as delivering AI-written work. Is this going to be like outing someone for being in some way dishonest, or even worse… fake?

I don’t know but would keep an eye on this evolving trend. Because if it takes hold, and I believe it will, it’s going to force a lot of people to rethink their dependency on AI. Not necessarily to give it up. But to focus on what expands their own talents, skills, knowledge and experience that will help them grow in a positive way.

For what it’s worth, this article is 100% my writing. The article hero image… not so much. But like I said, I use AI as a tool to enhance my own capabilities. And those are what I really want to depend on.

Interested to hear your thoughts. It’s a big topic.

Jeffrey D Brown is a strategist, author, and long-time creative professional who has helped guitar-related businesses and professionals cut through complexity, regain momentum, and move forward with purpose for decades at GUITARPR.

Learn more about his broader work at jeffreydbrown.com.