In the age of AI, how much work you do matters less than it used to. Here’s what matters more
The most important skills in today’s workplace are judgment and discretion. This is because the cost of output has never been cheaper. With models like Fable producing yet another step-function increase in capabilities, it’s easier than ever to run a million miles per hour in any direction, so that means you better be running in the right one. Productivity at work used to be measured largely by…
In the modern work landscape, the emphasis has shifted from output to judgment and discretion. This change is primarily due to the affordability of output with the help of AI models, such as Fable, which have significantly increased productivity capabilities. As a result, it is crucial to use AI correctly and ensure that the generated output aligns with the right direction.
Productivity used to be measured by output, but today, the quality of the output matters more than the quantity. High-volume, low-quality work can be detrimental to a company. The effort to create something valuable has become more important than the sheer volume of work produced.
Judgment plays a pivotal role in determining which ideas are worth pursuing. It involves deciding which ideas deserve attention and whether they are relevant or worth doing anything about. When judgment is absent, poorly crafted content can suffocate a company and drain its productivity.
Before the advent of AI, effort itself was a signal of care and dedication. However, with AI, effort is now cheap, and quantity is no longer a reliable indicator of value. To navigate this new reality, companies should adopt a few ground rules for their digital output. Firstly, think before using AI. Ensure that every sentence holds meaning and adds value, and avoid content that could have been generated by AI alone.
Secondly, strive to cut down the quantity of AI-generated content by 50% to 75%. Refrain from sending sloppily written content that takes more time to read than it took to create. Finally, assume that AI output can be reduced significantly, and take advantage of the time saved to focus on what truly matters.
In conclusion, the future of work lies in the ability to exercise judgment about what should be produced. Companies that prioritize quality over quantity will not only be more efficient but also better equipped to drive innovation and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Written by urgent.news from Fast Company's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.