The text discusses the introduction of a “Help me write” button in Google Docs, powered by AI, which allows users to generate draft documents. This feature, although not highly advanced, is expected to significantly boost productivity and lead to widespread adoption. However, there are concerns about the implications of outsourcing tasks to AI, such as anchoring on the first idea generated, potential decrease in thoughtfulness, and a flood of low-quality content. The focus is on the coming crisis of meaning in work, as the quality and effort put into written output, which used to be a valuable signal, may diminish. The text suggests that organizations and leaders need to be thoughtful in redesigning work in the AI era and capitalize on the opportunity to eliminate meaningless tasks.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Help me write button added to Google Docs | Outsourcing first drafts to AI | AI integration into familiar tools, widespread use of AI-generated drafts | Ease and efficiency in starting written tasks |
| Outsourcing time-consuming tasks to AI | Shift in the meaning of written output | Increase in AI-generated work, loss of meaning in written tasks | Efficiency and reduction of burdensome work |
| Loss of reflection and contemplation time | Diminishing capacity for reflection and reexamination | Increased dependence on AI-generated work, running on a hamster wheel | Accelerating pace of technology, increased workload and expectations |
| Temptation to “Press The Button” | Temptation to rely on AI for writing tasks | Widespread use of AI-generated work, blurring boundaries between work and play | Desire for ease and efficiency in completing tasks |
| Potential for more engaging “Help me write” button | Blurring boundaries between work and play | Automation of meaningless tasks, flourishing of fulfilling production | Desire for personalized and engaging AI assistance |