Observed 003

Hi there

Welcome to "Observed," your direct line into the lively discussions that shape our work at Obsolete. This week, we unpacked the evolving landscape of creative industries, examined the role of AI in education, and discussed the surprising financial analysis surrounding OpenAI's recent challenges. Let’s dive into the key themes from our latest Show and Tell session.

Emerging Technologies & Creative Disruption

In our discussions this week, it became clear that AI's footprint in the creative sector is growing at an unprecedented rate. We talked about the redundancies in the gaming industry—25,000 jobs lost in the past two years—largely due to AI-related efficiencies. This sparked a broader conversation: Is the creative sector under threat, or merely evolving?

The consensus leaned towards evolution. Yes, AI is automating parts of creative work, but it’s also providing new tools that help creatives work more efficiently. The challenge for education providers now is how to prepare students for an industry in flux. We debated whether traditional degrees are becoming obsolete, especially in light of how disconnected many creative courses are from current industry demands. There was a strong push towards emphasising practical, collaborative projects that teach not just artistic skills, but also entrepreneurship and adaptability.

Our recommendation for educational institutions was clear: shift focus towards more integrated, real-world projects. Embrace digital apprenticeships and partnerships with industry leaders to ensure students are equipped with the skills that align with the current and future needs of the creative sector. This means less emphasis on purely academic theory and more on tangible, employable skills.

OpenAI & New Tools: Expanding Horizons

This week, we also focused on OpenAI's evolving role in the industry. We examined their recent financial challenges, with reports highlighting the high operational costs and difficulties in achieving profitability despite the immense popularity of their models. It raised important questions about the sustainability of such ventures and the need for new business models to make advanced AI tools viable in the long term.

In addition, we explored OpenAI's latest investment plans and their ambitions to continue innovating in the AI space. Their ongoing investment in creating tools like the new collaborative canvas feature is a promising development, allowing for more dynamic and interactive document editing. This aligns with our emphasis on tools that support creativity without overshadowing the human element.

Our discussion also touched on the significance of integrating these tools into creative workflows responsibly. OpenAI's new canvas feature, which allows real-time collaboration and seamless editing, could be a game-changer for creative teams, bridging gaps between ideation and execution. However, these innovations also need to be evaluated for their impact on employment, ethical considerations, and accessibility.

Education in Flux: Adapting to AI

Our conversation touched on the rigidity of university structures and the challenges they face in keeping pace with the rapid changes in the tech world. A striking moment came when we reflected on the disconnect between creative academia and industry—many educational institutions still assume high employability in fields like design, without factoring in the accelerating impact of AI.

We also explored new approaches like digital apprenticeships, combining real-world work experience with academic learning. These models, still in their infancy, could provide a more adaptable path for those aiming to enter creative fields—an opportunity for hands-on learning without the hefty price tag of a traditional degree.

Our recommendation for universities: collaborate directly with creative industries to co-design curricula that reflect real-world applications of AI. Incorporate continuous feedback from industry stakeholders to ensure that what is taught remains relevant and actionable.

Why It’s Important:

For creative industries, the integration of AI is a double-edged sword—promising exciting new tools while raising real questions about future employment and skill development. Educational institutions and businesses alike must adapt, shifting their focus towards lifelong learning and practical, hands-on experience.

That’s it for this week’s "Observed." As we continue to explore AI's impact on creative industries, education, and the wider world, we invite you to share your thoughts. How do you see AI reshaping your sector? Stay tuned for more in the next edition.

The Obsolete team