In the past year, there has been a shift among corporate professionals in my field in how they approach content development.

It is quite interesting to see how emerging technology trends are turbocharging our work processes. In terms of insights, here is both a personal and professional perspective:

The evolving role of writers in the AI era

Like it or not, there is an imminent shift in the field of professional content writing. The traditional mastery of words is now being augmented — and in some cases, overshadowed — by AI technologies.

There's an undeniable sense of apprehension among some businesses and writers, stemming from the concern that AI might render human creativity obsolete.

However, I welcome the demise of the writer's traditional approach to content and embrace this evolutionary leap for humankind. This technology, rather than diminishing the value of human creativity, is proving to be a new canvas for content exploration and experimentation. 

AI, however, still has a long way to go in matching the nuanced, clever writing that comes from human imagination.

Shifts in communication channels

Platforms specialising in video, such as TikTok, have become dominant communications channels — especially among younger audiences. 

There's also growing demand for content that's directly relevant and beneficial to the audience's lives. People are seeking tangible rewards and engagements, like competitions and giveaways, which offer immediate value for spending time with your content.

Furthermore, there's increasing appreciation for platforms that allow for honest, unfiltered opinions, as seen in the popularity of podcasts. These platforms not only provide entertainment but also make room for meaningful discussions on current affairs, inviting participation from anyone no matter how unpopular their opinions might be.

The year ahead: anticipations and trends

Looking forward to 2024, I'm excited about a couple of things:

AI growth
The evolution of AI is fascinating. Large Language Model applications and Natural Language Processing platforms such as ChatGPT and Google Bard have expanded from simply processing text prompts to assisting with visual data, revolutionising how we use information for creative expression.

For instance, imagine you're visiting Sandton and snap a photo of the iconic Nelson Mandela statue. Prior to 2023, you'd be quite content with just posting it with the #SandtonCity hashtag and calling it a day. But now, AI allows you to show off a bit more.

The AI can not only identify good old Madiba but also provide additional information about the statue's history, significance, the artist and maybe even gossip about what uTata was thinking in that statue pose.

Rogue mode in gaming
More and more, games are embracing rogue mode, encouraging players to explore beyond the main storyline. This trend unlocks a new door of possibilities when it comes to gaming quests, and I'm keen to see how it impacts gaming narratives and player engagement. 

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*Image courtesy of Canva