AI and monetization pitfalls

Many of us create daily in front of our computers, and we could feel tempted, under the duress of competition, to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to cut corners and get the job done at breakneck speed. However, AI could also quickly become your worst enemy, and let me explain why.

Even though there are so many experts who are trying, sometimes desperately, to take you down the AI rabbit hole, promising great returns with little or no effort, the risks can easily outweigh the benefits of using the emerging technology. 

This is particularly true when entering into the discussion of AI and monetization.

Content is still King

It is one of these phrases that creators have heard repeatedly throughout their career and I believe the concept holds even more true today as we post for social media platforms.  And content is what exactly AI promises through its applications, whether it be articles, images, graphics, videos, among so many other elements.

But the cost involving the use of AI can also be steep, considering copyright lawsuits due to content that infringes on the rights of an individual or organization. Copyright Alliance, which represents over 2 million creators and 15,000 organizations, reports on the issue of AI infringement. 

"If there’s one thing we’ve learned from recent developments so far in 2024 in infringement cases against generative AI companies, it’s that plaintiffs are getting wiser about what claims to bring and are now focusing almost entirely on claims of direct infringement for input-side copying. Motions to dismiss either haven’t challenged those claims, or they have, and courts have rejected them". See story published in Copyright Alliance: https://copyrightalliance.org/ai-lawsuit-developments-2024/

Besides the costly economical price of these lawsuits, the ethical aspect of originality is also of main concern, whether it be for an individual job prospects by using, for example, a cover letter written with AI, or a news organization that infringes original content by reposting using the advancing technology.

Likewise, the need for these products to be original or true is paramount, taking precedence over so many considerations. Boldbusiness.com, a global solutions provider, highlights that the "AI platforms already have the potential to be used to spread disinformation".

"Interestingly, differences in opinion in monetizing AI are key issues among some AI companies today. Specifically, OpenAI is struggling to balance their non-profit mission with the companies’ for-profit arm designed to fuel its research...When all is said and done, OpenAI might simply be the next Google rather than the AI savior it intended to be." See story: https://www.boldbusiness.com/digital/biggest-problem-ai-monetizing-its-use/

Under the onslaught of AI content that is being posted on social media, it would be wise if users would use content made by humans. A study, conducted by Marketing Insider Group, shows that this is the case when taking into consideration several indicators, such as web traffic and content visibility. 

"As of now, if you’re choosing between AI vs. human content, our study suggests sticking with humans. Why? Because humans bring creativity, emotional depth, and a personal touch that AI just hasn’t mastered yet. Sure, AI is fast and cost-effective, but when it comes to quality and trust, humans still have the edge". See story and findings: https://marketinginsidergroup.com/artificial-intelligence/ai-vs-human-content-what-actually-gets-you-results-research-report/

Then again, we can also go with our gut feeling to determine if an image is too good to be true or if an article seems too perfect to have been written under an afternoon deadline. 

The human connection still remains true.

And accountability can save you a few dollars when all is said and done.