Long time no see
I’m Eli, a New York City-based product designer, tech enthusiast, parent, and occasional creator. You signed up for this newsletter, but probably forgot because the last time I posted was… never? If you find this email unwanted, please know that you can unsubscribe at any time following the link at the bottom.
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I’ve spent disproportionately more time thinking about updating this newsletter than actually doing it. My intention was always to share what’s on my mind, but I boxed myself in to the idea that it needed to be precisely edited essay-length prose, and ain’t nobody got time for that (at least not me). Instead, I’m going to play with a new format, inspired by James Clear’s 3-2-1, but in reverse. Here’s the idea:
One thought that’s been bouncing around in my head. It might be an open ended question, or an opinion.
Two links that caught my attention recently. Interesting designs, industry developments, whatever.
Three job postings. I’m doing a lot of mentoring, portfolio reviews, and referrals these days. It’s weird time to be looking for a job, and I want to help.
Welcome to the first issue of what hopefully becomes a regular habit.
1. Thought
AI isn’t coming for your job - someone who knows how to use AI is.
It seems impossible to have a conversation these days without someone mentioning AI, either as a miraculous solution to all our problems or as a looming threat to our way of life. Personally, I believe reality lies somewhere in between these extremes. While today's AI is proficient at handling time-consuming manual tasks currently performed by humans, the historical pattern suggests that roles will either evolve or be replaced, leading to potentially reduced compensation. However, this phenomenon isn't new; humans have continually invented tools to increase efficiency, reshaping the job market in the process.
Consider the printing press, which replaced manual copying, democratized access to books, and catalyzed creative expression. Similarly, electricity revolutionized industries and households, replacing manual labor and paving the way for innovations like the light bulb and electric motor. Even photography, initially seen as a threat to traditional artists, ultimately expanded the horizons of artistic expression.
While AI may feel like a quantum leap compared to these inventions, history shows that each innovation was equally disruptive and unsettling in its time. Despite these disruptions, humanity has consistently emerged stronger and more innovative. AI, I believe, will be no different.
If you aren’t leveraging AI already, you should start immediately. I'm continually amazed by its ability to handle routine tasks and save valuable time. Those who choose not to embrace AI will find themselves competing with individuals who do.
Today, AI's capabilities allow us to tap into a global "hive mind" that is instantly searchable and efficient, surpassing the limitations of traditional search engines. However, AI lacks creativity, a distinctly human quality. It takes a human to discern its errors, expand upon its suggestions, and create something valuable. AI needs a conductor, a "person in the loop" who is then able to accomplish the work of many.
Be the conductor, not the caboose.
2. Links
“Burn Book: A Tech Love Story” by Kara Swisher. Swisher, a seasoned tech journalist, reflects on her love for technology and her disillusionment with its current state in a personal and enlightening retrospective. She shares a poignant quote from Paul Virilio: “When you invent the ship, you also invent the shipwreck; when you invent the plane you also invent the plane crash; and when you invent electricity, you invent electrocution... Every technology carries its own negativity, which is invented at the same time as technical progress.”
Camel Camel Camel - a free Amazon price tracker. More utility than news, this tool helps to fill in the gap that Honey and the like left behind after being acquired. Track the products you want and stay ahead of the algorithm.
3. Jobs
Staff Product Designer, Risk @ Mercury. Mercury, a small-business banking platform, seized the moment when Silicon Valley Bank went belly-up, and has been releasing tons of interesting features at a break neck pace. I love their brand, aesthetic, and overall sense of restraint when it comes to displaying financial interfaces.
Product Designer @ Moab. Moab is building a platform for equipment dealers and rentals. It’s pretty rare to see a role these days where the required experience is only 2 years - calling all mid-level designers.
Product Design Manager @ Duolingo. I’m addicted to Duolingo in the best way possible. I love their game mechanics, animations and brand. They seem to infuse delightful UX with deeply understood human psychology. They are hiring for this role in Pittsburgh, but I’ve noticed a lot of NYC activity as well.
That’s it for this issue. Let me know what you thought.