Why Chat GPT won’t be replacing me

anytime soon

May 24, 2023

I’ve got a confession to make.

I've become obsessed with Chat GPT (aka Sheryl) lately, and it's time to come clean. I'm in love with how Sheryl simplifies idea generation, speeds up research, and tirelessly answers my endless questions. I’m in love with her ability to engage in multiple conversations and context switch effortlessly. On top of that I love that she always provides me with the perfect responses to win any debate among friends when I input the right prompts (will share this another time).

However, I’ve been feeling a little on edge of late. It’s already making jobs that require lots of repetition and little to no human input redundant. I’ve seen a rise of design and content marketing agencies selling themselves as AI-first, and platforms claiming to design entire apps using AI, so naturally I’m lowkey shitting myself that if I don't stay close to the development of Chat GPT and other AI tools, “they’re coming for me” too. As someone deeply passionate about my work as a designer, I'm not ready to give it up just yet. However to be quite honest, it’s definitely not ready to replace me yet either.

Here are 3 reasons why:

Reason 1: it’s actually a bit cringe sometimes

Lack of originality and ability to think outside the box

I tested Chat GPT's ability to develop ideas for a fashion brand targeting Gen Z customers that sells sparkly, glittery, sequin clothing. While it was very capable of creating a brand mission statement, crafting unique selling points, and suggested brand words, it struggled to generate a company name that didn't make me want to throw my laptop out the window. Here's a sample of what the most cringe worthy suggestions it came up with:

Reason 2: it’s literally not a human

Inability to make human-centric decisions

When it comes to website design, user experience (UX) and interface design play a vital role in creating intuitive and enjoyable experiences for customers. While Chat GPT can assist with UX writing, design ideas, and best practices, it lacks empathy. Designing for real humans requires emotional understanding of their experiences and perspectives, something AI models like Chat GPT lack. We shouldn't replace genuine human empathy with artificial empathy that may only appear real. E.g. in the image below, it’s not really sorry to hear that I’m feeling sad, it’s just saying it is… which actually isn’t that far from some humans.

Reason 3: I can’t put it in front of my clients

It can’t talk to clients

Effective client communication is crucial as a business owner and it can be the difference between making sense of requirements and completely cocking things up. Chat GPT, as proficient as it is, falls short in understanding the nuances and intricacies of client interactions. It can’t read the subtle cues, tone, and unspoken needs that often shape a successful client relationship. With one of my clients, we’ve been able to meet in person for design review sessions and undoubtedly these interactions are the ones we cherish the most. Human connection is vital for building trust and delivering exceptional results.

So in summary, while Chat GPT undeniably has its strengths, these are just a few examples of where it cannot replace the true value and expertise human designers like myself bring to the table.

However by recognising its limitations and using it as an assistant or amplifier of our own skills, I know that my career as a designer to provide impact in the world is safe… for now.

If you liked this, you should subscribe here: