4 minute read
EDITOR’S COMMENT
Don’t become the ‘robot voice’
‘Beyond Eventing’ — the theme of this year’s SAACI National Conference was most apt for today’s changing world.
The congress speakers took a close look at technology and how it is currently changing the world we live in.
Speakers highlighted the role of AI in our changing world and how we can no longer ignore the‘elephant in the room’— automation. I really enjoyed the practical examples offered, as well as the cautionary tales. We feature a complete report-back on the congress, in this edition.
It goes without saying, that automation continues to change our lives daily, especially in our professional lives. There are so many AI options available. We are just beginning to understand its enormity.
There are many benefits and yes, the benefits are immense.
However, we need to ensure that we don’t become that ‘robot voice’we all hate from cold-callers. What do I mean? As much as technology can assist us, it remains a tool that can assist, but cannot replace the human touch. This is very important.
Already, we are quite ‘removed’ in our communication — we no longer make phone calls, but rely on WhatsApp messages, voice notes, and social media to communicate.
instance, aren’t we losing something fundamental — our humanness? What I am saying is, to use the tool, but before an email gets sent, make sure you have also provided your input — to ensure the connection remains.
The more we disconnect from these daily tasks, the less we will start to care and with this, we could be moving into a world of less accountability and integrity. Am I overthinking this?
I understand we all have to move with the times and need to start making use of these AI tools, but I think using everything in moderation is wise. The key is to make use of AI as a tool. No matter how‘connected you are to your AI, you still need to be present.
No matter what anyone tells you, the human essence cannot be replaced. What do I mean? As an example, if you let Chat GPT write your copy, you need to refine it. Frankly, I can immediately tell if copy has been written by Chat GPT, or another AI app, as it lacks authenticity and makes use of tons of adjectives and repetition. I am sure as time goes by, these AI tools will improve but don’t fool yourself, you still need to be part of the process.
My biggest fear, is that we begin to completely disconnect, leading to a world where we are completely removed. As one of the speakers at the SAACI National Congress said, you cannot automate an experience.
The business events sector is all about experiences.
So, as you move into a more automated world, have fun exploring, but try not to lose the human touch. Remember, life is short, the world moves fast, and our humanness is what separates us from AI.
In closing, I would like to thank SAACI, for awarding me the Godfrey King Integrity Award. I have been overwhelmed with congratulations and best wishes from my industry family. Thank you.
For those who don’t know, Godfrey King was the founder of Contact Publications, publisher of Business Events Africa, and a founding member of SAACI. He was the reason I joined this industry 20 years ago; he headhunted me way back then, to take over from him as editor. He was a remarkable man, a visionary, and my mentor, and I learnt a lot from him over the years. For this reason, besides the amazing recognition from the industry, I am really honoured and humbled to have won this particular award.
