How to balance the technical and business aspects of running an AI startup, as a technical person.

Problem:

"As the field of artificial intelligence continues to advance at an exponential pace, it's easy for technical people to get caught up in the excitement of new technology and shiny objects."

"The temptation to create the latest and greatest AI models or use cutting-edge technology can be overwhelming."

"But in reality, the key to success is often about finding the right balance between the technical and business aspects of an AI startup."

How to deal:

"One way to achieve this balance is to always look at things from a return on investment perspective."

"Is the technology or AI model you're developing going to solve a real business problem for your customers?"

"If not, then it may not be worth pursuing."

"For example, let's say you're a technical person working on developing an AI-powered chatbot for a customer service company."

"While it may be tempting to focus solely on developing a state-of-the-art chatbot with the Large Language Model, it's important to remember that the primary goal is to improve customer service and reduce costs."

"If a simpler, less cutting-edge chatbot can achieve these goals just as effectively, it may be the better choice from a return on investment perspective."

"It's also important to be pragmatic in technical stuff, and not just follow the latest tech trends or suffer from FOMO (fear of missing out)."

"As an AI startup founder, you need to be able to separate hype from reality and make sound technical decisions based on what will actually create value for your customers."

"For example, while the field of AI is constantly evolving with new models and algorithms, it's important to focus on what will work for your specific business needs rather than getting swept up in the latest trends."

"Furthermore, it's important to remember that technology is just a vehicle to solve business problems."

"The real value of AI lies in its ability to create business value for customers."

"For example, let's say you're a technical person working on developing an AI-powered fraud detection system for a bank."

"While there may be cutting-edge AI models that can detect fraud with a high degree of accuracy, it's important to focus on the business value the system can bring to the bank, such as reducing fraud losses and improving customer trust."

"Another key to balancing the technical and business aspects of an AI startup is to surround yourself with business-minded people, not just technical people."

"Business-minded people can help you understand the customer's needs and goals, and ensure that you're developing technology that will actually make a difference to the business."

"For example, having a business-oriented co-founder or advisor can help you stay focused on the customer's needs and develop technology that solves real business problems."

"Finally, it's important to visit your customers often on the grassroots level to understand their real problems."

"This will help you develop a deep understanding of their needs and goals, and ensure that you're developing technology that will actually make a difference in their lives."

"For example, let's say you're a technical person working on developing an AI-powered healthcare app."

"By visiting hospitals and clinics and talking to doctors and patients, you can gain a better understanding of their pain points and develop an app that truly addresses their needs."

"In the end, the key to balancing the technical and business aspects of an AI startup is to stay focused on creating value for your customers."

"By keeping your eyes on the prize, and surrounding yourself with the right people, you can create a successful AI startup that delivers real value to customers and stakeholders alike."