From Film Rolls to AI Projects: Prioritization in a World of Abundance
The Grand Canyon in 2006. Five rolls of Fuji Velvia, 180 precious shots, and 40+ of those in my archive. Today? A staggering 2,200 digital photos shot, of which a mere 50 survived the post-processing gauntlet. This digital deluge isn't unique. The ease and abundance of digital photography mirror a challenge we face in the age of innovation: ruthless prioritization.
The Film vs. Digital Photography Analogy: A Lesson in Focus
Film photography was a masterclass in focus. Limited shots forced meticulous planning, composition, and a deep understanding of lighting. The wait for results — a week with bated breath — demanded a keen eye for what made a great photo. Every click mattered!
This freedom of digital photography is exhilarating — instant feedback and endless creative options
Digital photography, on the other hand, is a feast. With near-zero marginal cost per shot and terabytes of storage, we take hundreds, even thousands, of photos. This freedom is exhilarating — instant feedback and endless creative options. However, gone is the scarcity mindset. We bracket for every scenario "just in case," drowning in a sea of "maybes," hoping a gem emerges in post-processing. The ability to experiment is liberating but can also breed indecision, leaving us sorting through mountains of mediocre shots instead of crafting exceptional ones.
The Innovation Pipeline: Power with Prioritization
While digital photography unlocks many advantages, it doesn't mean you can aim the camera anywhere and expect a good shot. Proper preparation is still necessary, and the more effort you put into getting the shot right the first time, the less time you'll have to spend editing out any unwanted noise. However, it is critical to embrace the significant benefits: real-time feedback and the ability to be creative during post-processing are also phenomenal.
This lack of prioritization plagues the world of innovation, particularly with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Large Language Models (LLMs) have revolutionized development, slashing Proof-of-Concept timelines. While exciting, this newfound power can lead to a "shoot first, ask questions later" mentality.
Prioritization is the Filter for Success
The core principles of prioritization in the digital age remain the same, but the stakes are higher:
- Business Value First: Every film click has a purpose, and every AI project needs a clear business value. Focus on projects that address customer needs or improve operational efficiency. Don't get seduced by the latest AI fad; ensure it aligns with your core objectives.
- Feasibility Check: Do we have the technical expertise and resources to complete the project successfully? Only pursue ambitious ideas with a realistic execution plan.
- Customer Experience Matters: Will AI enhance the customer journey? Don't prioritize projects that create a technological marvel without any user benefit. Keep the focus on the human element.
- Embrace the Feedback Loop: One of the biggest superpowers of the Digital era is the ability to fail fast. Leverage AI outputs to iterate and refine, just like getting instant feedback from your digital viewfinder. Quickly identify and weed out PoCs (Proofs of Concept) with limited potential for scaling or positive impact. Finite resources demand this ruthless evaluation.
The Takeaway: Focus, Iterate, and Win
The digital revolution has democratized creation, both in photography and AI. But with this freedom comes the responsibility to prioritize ruthlessly.
Don't get caught up in the "more is better" trap. Channel the film photographer's discipline into your AI projects — focus on purpose, plan meticulously, and embrace the power of thoughtful creation.
Prioritize effectively and ensure that your AI initiatives are innovative and impactful.
