The long-awaited platform shift is on the horizon

and it’s being fuelled by AI

Andrew Cheung
2 min readMar 14, 2024

This shift is not about whether AI technology can be built, but rather about the challenges of creating a sustainable AI business, particularly for startups. The learning curve is steep, and the domain is currently dominated by large corporations. However, the tides are turning, and we must pay close attention.

The primary reason for this impending shift lies in the dramatic reduction of marginal costs. In the past, tasks such as converting an image into a Pixar-style animation would cost a graphic artist $100 and take an hour. Today, AI can accomplish this feat at a significantly lower cost in terms of both time and money. This pivotal moment is comparable to the internet reducing distribution costs to almost zero

As we move forward, AI will be pivotal in four key areas: companionship, creativity, productivity, and robotics. These pillars will not only redefine business processes but also revolutionise the way we live and work. Contrary to popular belief, AI will not lead to a reduction in jobs; instead, it will create more opportunities due to Jevon’s paradox.

We must take note of this AI wave for several reasons:
1. Competitive Advantage: Companies that leverage AI will gain a competitive edge by automating routine tasks, enabling employees to focus on strategic and creative initiatives.
2. Innovation: AI opens up a world of possibilities for product development. By integrating AI into products, companies can offer personalised user experiences, predictive analytics, and automation.
3. Efficiency: AI can streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve decision-making. By harnessing the power of AI, product managers can create data-driven strategies and make informed decisions.
4. Future-Proofing: As AI evolves, companies adopting AI early on will be better positioned to adapt to future changes and disruptions.

In conclusion, the AI revolution is not a matter of “if” but “when.” Product managers who understand and embrace this technology will not only survive but thrive in this new era. The time to act is now.

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Andrew Cheung

AI Consultant & Product Manager | Specialising in AI Strategy & transformation | Enhancing Business and User Journeys