Why "AI-First" Companies Are a Fad (And What Works Instead)

Got into a debate after someone posted that AI agents should be running in the background of every business and workflows that don't adapt are outdated.

Here's my take: A big mistake I see companies make, especially brand new ones, is implementing AI too soon.

The reality is, if you're launching a commoditized business, by all means take the validated playbook and implement AI.

But for any blue ocean business, an AI-First business is a fad.

You don't know what works till you synthesize & validate.

Let me be honest: This is fundamental.

Robots can't do that for you - they are an Efficiency Solution, not a Proficiency Solution.

A skill issue is not something to outsource - it's like being a franchise and relying on an Agency charging you monthly retainer for something way out of your expertise.

Here's where most founders mess up: They think AI can solve skill gaps.

The best companies have in-house operations to keep cost low and results in control.

Humans must optimize and accelerate first. Period.

The framework that actually works: Build human processes first, validate what works, then automate with AI.

Don't use AI to figure out what works - use it to scale what you've already proven works.

This is the difference between efficiency and proficiency.

Bottom line: AI agents running everything sounds impressive, but it's backwards thinking.

Master the fundamentals with human expertise first. Then let AI handle the repetitive execution.

Proficiency first, efficiency second.

Hope you found this valuable! :)

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