A.I. Thoughts: Keeping “Artificial” Authentic

The world of communication is constantly changing… new vocabulary, new tools, new techniques and new norms are consistently available to us and expected from us.

And this reality continues to be as true today as it ever was. The rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence tools is changing the world of communication, rapidly and significantly. There is no doubt about that.

Our team at The Latimer Group is constantly thinking about, researching and discussing the impact that A.I. tools will have on the world of communication. We believe that these tools have already made significant impact on the speed with which we research issues and draft language and messaging.

We also believe, however, that there is also a bit of misunderstanding and occasional hysteria when it comes to the long term impact of these tools. There is a misconception that artificial intelligence tools will eventually replace the human element in communication entirely. We disagree. A.I. tools will never replace the need for the human element. We believe that these tools must certainly be understood and harnessed. We believe that they present the user with incredible power and speed. But we also believe that great communication first and foremost is about a human connection, which requires awareness, empathy, and a nuanced understanding of each other… things that A.I. tools will never replicate.

The timeline of human history contains many examples of groundbreaking changes in communication: the telegraph, the telephone, radio, television, the fax machine, the internet, wireless networks, email and many others. These new A.I. tools are but the latest in this long line of innovations that have always dramatically shifted the ways in which we obtain and distribute information.

These tools must be understood and utilized. They already play a powerful role in how we communicate, and that will increase over time. But there will always be a need for the sophisticated and nuanced communication skills that create human connection.

Our advice… learn these tools. Use them. But while they might help you speed up your research and your first or second draft, there will always be a need for you to put your own human touch and voice on the final product. Powerful communication is about understanding, awareness, connection, empathy and trust. That kind of authenticity cannot be artificial.

Good luck and have a great day.