ChatGPT and other AI chatbots seem to have hold everywhere in tech media currently. Being a writer, it feels tempting to jump on the AI hype train and start generating overnight articles on these noisy new technologies. But before you add to the buzz, it's worth stepping back and taking a measured approach. Most writers should resist overhyping AI and remain focused on producing quality work over quantity.
Ever heard of the Gartner Hype Cycle? It's like the stock market of technology enthusiasm.
The Gartner Hype Cycle model shows how emerging technologies typically follow a predictable pattern from launch to mainstream adoption. They start off at the 'peak of inflated expectations' where hype and media coverage are at fever pitch. But they soon slide into the 'trough of disillusionment' as obstacles emerge and inflated expectations aren't met. Only the most promising and useful technologies climb the 'slope of enlightenment' to reach the 'plateau of productivity.'
Right now, AI like ChatGPT is at the peak right. You can't escape a single day from the flow of AI news and claims that it will change the fabric of our existence. The sheer volume of breathless "Have you met our robot overlords?" articles would make you think AI will radically transform every industry overnight. But for many human writers, jumping on the AI hype train at the height of inflated expectations can backfire.
Though it is the talk of the town, but reader interest seems already be waning amid fatigue generated by the hype. I confess I've grown tired of reading repetitive AI explainers and predictions as a consumer of tech news.
What dangers does overhyping AI pose for writers in this environment?
First, most predictions made today about revolutionary AI impacts stand a good chance of being wrong, shortsighted or laughable in hindsight. Just look at past forecasts of flying cars and jetpacks for all.
Second, in a crowded media landscape, yet another AI story struggles to stand out and find readers when interest is peaking.
And third, writers risk spreading misinformation and sacrificing their relevance if focused on hype rather than practical reality.
So how should writers sustain in the AI hype storm? The key is maintaining healthy skepticism, high imagination and critical view, writing selectively and focusing on real outcomes over sci-fi-tinged promises. Unless you specialize specifically in AI, machine learning or emerging tech, there's no need to force the topic. Ask yourself whether each AI story idea is worth pursuing, or just feeding the beast.
When AI is relevant to your beat, don't just join the herd. Do the extra work to ensure your coverage stands out. Thoroughly research capabilities in context, seek out unique angles, and evaluate tangible impacts on industries and consumers - positive and negative. Rather than assertions that AI will replace human skills, consider thoughtful analysis of how it might complement humans. Find the underreported issues and impacts to provide valuable perspectives many others missed.
Resist any urge to engage in speculation about extreme scenarios or make bold future predictions. Find ways to inject an informed, critical voice to counteract the hype. And never exaggerate AI's current abilities - be clear about its limitations too. The most compelling writing will focus on practical reality, not sci-fi fantasy.
AI hype might feel irresistible as we reach peak expectations. But maintaining high quality standards versus chasing every buzzy topic is key for writers who want to produce work of lasting value.
Keep perspective, tune out the noise, and focus on original insights. When in doubt, just remember that expecting from AI doctors to perfectly diagnose your problem will end in vain when all they will do is spout out every possible disease when you describe your symptoms!
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