Lately, it feels like every client I work with wants to throw AI into their product or workflow. They’ve been scrolling the web, getting bombarded with all things AI, and now they’re convinced it’ll transform their business.
I love my clients, but I spend a lot of time talking them out of this.
Don’t get me wrong, AI is cool. It can do amazing things. But if you’re looking at it as a replacement for creativity, problem-solving, or critical thinking—don’t expect it to last. AI is a tool, not a magic wand.
Let me put it this way: If what you’re offering your clients can be easily replicated by AI, you’re in trouble. It means you’re not delivering the kind of irreplaceable value your clients truly need.
Sure, I’ve had back-and-forths with clients where I could technically use AI to come up with the exact solution they’re asking for. But what’s the point if it’s overpriced, AI-generated, and lacks the human touch? Their clients won’t care, and neither will their competition.
It’s like this: Imagine giving everyone in the world a kilo of gold. No one’s actually richer. The same applies to AI—everyone has access to it. If you charge a premium for an AI-generated product, your competitors will catch up fast, and suddenly, it’s a race to the bottom. Everyone loses.
So, is “Made with AI” the new “Made in China”?
Good question. My take? If you’re using AI to genuinely add value, go for it. But if you’re using it to cut corners, you’re probably headed in the wrong direction. You need to reinvent your offering, not your labor costs.
Maybe “Made without AI” becomes the new “Handmade.” There’s still room for both AI-powered products and handcrafted solutions, but I think the real exclusivity will lie in things made by humans, cared for by humans, and invented by humans.
So what do you think? Are you panicking over AI, thinking you’ll miss the train? Or do you see the opportunity to optimize your business without losing the human touch?
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