News and pop culture is awash in handwringing about artificial intelligence (AI) and chatbots. I’ve read that jobs will be lost, governments will topple, sentient computers will feel enslaved and then, in turn, enslave us. We are pretty much as close to living in a (much more boring) version of “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” than I would have guessed when that movie first blew my mind back in 1991.
So, I decided to ask ChatGPT how many job losses its existence would create but the bot declined to give me a number. Goldman Sachs was not so reticent: A recent report of theirs noted that AI could replace the equivalent of 300 million full-time jobs globally (about 14% of the workforce).
I then asked ChatGPT to take a crack at this very editor’s letter. The result was underwhelming (but, to be honest, so are my own efforts at times). Considering how little context I provided, though, the editor’s letter wasn’t terrible. Here’s a taste of what ChatGPT wrote for me:
“Welcome to the latest issue! As we delve into the dynamic and multifaceted world of restaurant design and development, we are excited to explore a range of topics that reflect the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry.”
Then I wondered if ChatGPT could take on a bigger challenge. Can it do the job of our magazine’s readers? Can it design a restaurant? The bot initially downplayed its abilities — “I can certainly help generate ideas and provide suggestions…but I do not have the capability to create detailed blueprints…” — but it wasn’t as shy about providing suggestions, offering eight key points to carefully consider: concept and theme, including menu; space planning; interior design; kitchen design; technological integration; accessibility and inclusivity; sustainable design practices; and branding and signage. It’s not a terrible list, even if it was rather shallow.
To be fair, ChatGPT also noted: “It is essential to work with qualified architects, interior designers, and other professionals to ensure that the design meets local building codes, regulations and safety standards.” To read the chatbot’s detailed answer to my question, go to rddmag.com.
What do you think? Will you use AI in the near future to aid in restaurant development and design? Feel free to reach out and let me know!