Conor Grennan: AI Mindset, NYU GenAI, & Practical AI
May 24, 2024
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Conor Grennan discusses his experience with ChatGPT and the importance of understanding how non-tech individuals think. He shares his AI productivity stack, simplifying technical terms, and the potential of AI for content creation. Grennan emphasizes the challenges of demystifying AI, the role of leadership, and the advantage of non-tech backgrounds. He explores AI in academia, the need for educators to adapt teaching methods, and the benefits of communication skills in utilizing AI models.
AI tools can enhance work routines and reshape daily tasks, even for non-tech users.
Demystifying AI is crucial to combat fears and promote a user-friendly approach.
AI implementation yields tangible returns in productivity, necessitating strong learning cultures and leadership support.
Deep dives
Impacts of Chat2BT on Daily Work
Upon encountering the chat2BT tool, Connor, the chief AI architect at NYU Stern School of Business, initially focused on culture, HR, and coaching MBA students. The introduction of chat2BT transformed his perspective, leading him to realize its potential to revolutionize various aspects of work. Inspired by its capabilities, Connor took initiative to integrate the tool in educational and professional settings, demonstrating the significant impact of AI in reshaping daily work routines.
Overcoming Technical Barriers as a Non-Tech User
Connor's journey into AI without a technical background highlighted the ease of adoption and application of AI tools for non-tech users. As he delved into chat2BT and other language models, he found the absence of traditional learning curves, unlike mastering programming or other technical skills. This observation emphasized the user-friendly nature of AI tools, enabling individuals without tech expertise to leverage them effectively for various purposes.
Challenging Perceptions and Simplifying AI Applications
In engaging with organizations and individuals apprehensive about AI, Connor emphasized demystifying AI tools to combat fears surrounding complexity and difficulty. By advocating for a simple approach rooted in user-friendly interactions and feedback mechanisms, Connor aimed to transform perceptions of AI from intimidating to empowering. Encouraging a shift from conventional use cases to broader applications, Connor promoted a holistic understanding of AI's potential and accessibility.
Impacts of AI on Jobs and Skill Levels
AI's impact on jobs is discussed, highlighting a shift towards offloading tasks rather than entire jobs. The conversation delves into the potential reduction in the need for human labor due to AI's task efficiency. While AI can accelerate information processing and yield gains in productivity, individuals with expertise still hold an advantage in understanding quality and guiding processes.
ROI and Adoption of AI in Organizations
The podcast reflects on the tangible returns seen from AI implementation in organizations. It suggests that while some small teams witness notable ROI through enhanced productivity and quality, broader organizational transformations are still evolving. The importance of strong learning cultures in larger organizations and leadership support for AI integration are emphasized for successful adoption and outcomes.
Join Logan Kilpatrick and Nolan Fortman as we dive deep into how having an AI-first mindset is one of the key enablers for the broad adoption of AI. Conor has trained hundreds of thousands of people to use AI and currently serves as the head of generative AI at NYU Stern. Takeaways - Stay out of the AI bubble and understand how people outside of the tech industry think. - Simplify technical terms and focus on real-life applications when explaining AI to non-technical individuals. - Grennan's AI productivity stack includes tools like perplexity and fine-tuned models. - He is excited about the personalization capabilities of AI and its potential to transform content creation. - Grennan expresses concern about the challenges posed by deepfakes and the need to educate vulnerable populations about AI. Demystifying AI is crucial for successful implementation, and leadership and culture play a significant role in this process. - Non-technical backgrounds can provide an advantage in understanding the potential of AI and breaking down preconceived notions. - Staying informed about AI requires reading newsletters, listening to podcasts, and following experts on platforms like Twitter. - AI implementation in academia faces challenges, but faculty can adapt their teaching methods to incorporate AI effectively. - Small teams and organizations with a strong learning and trust culture tend to see tangible returns from AI implementation. - Integrating AI in organizations requires reframing the mindset and setting new benchmarks for productivity and quality.
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