Marc Fischer is the CEO and Co-Founder of Dogtown Media, a mobile technology studio based in Venice Beach, California.
getty
As we stride further into the era of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), one thing has become clear: AI is changing the world in ways we never could have imagined just a few years ago. The adoption of ChatGPT, which is the fastest-adopted technology in human history, gaining 100 million users in two months, signaled the start of a new age in AI. A Goldman Sachs report predicts that AI could impact up to 300 million jobs. As pioneers in this rapidly evolving field, we at Dogtown Media have been working in the AI/ML space for the past seven years.
We have been involved in projects where we have designed complex systems such as robots and drones that can automatically self-navigate spaces, identify objects in the real world with live videos and photos and handle other advanced processes. Up until now, it has taken our team weeks, months and years to build the associated processes and systems. Now, with generative AI, we can build the same technologies and launch in days and weeks instead of months and years.
Recently, we used this technology to build an AI-powered chatbot app, Merlin AI, and launched it in app stores in just eight days. Since launching Merlin, we have seen impressive results: 100,000 downloads across 202 countries, 4 million AI-to-user interactions and an average engagement time of 33 minutes per session. Here’s an inside look at how you can use ChatGPT to speed up your business processes.
Taking An App From Idea To App Store In Eight Days
Our team saw an opportunity to utilize ChatGPT to help create a ChatGPT mobile app, using the technology to accelerate development from start to finish. We found that we could develop a chatbot app that leverages OpenAI's GPT technology to allow users to engage in virtual conversations and find answers to their questions. We pushed ourselves to take the project from concept to app store as quickly as possible.
To accomplish this, we divided the project into a few key segments: brainstorming, naming, branding and color palette, UX design feedback and guidance, coding with GitHub Co-Pilot, choosing ASO keywords, writing an app description and crafting a go-to-market strategy. For each segment, we employed ChatGPT to help us generate ideas quickly and efficiently throughout the entire process.
We were amazed at how ChatGPT not only expedited our development process but also reshaped our whole approach to creating mobile applications. We took our ChatGPT-powered chatbot app from an idea to the app store in just eight days. Here's how you can do the same with your projects.
The Breakdown: Your Step-By-Step Guide
Initial Brainstorming
To lay a strong foundation for your project, assemble your core team and dive into a brainstorming session. To zero in on features, target audience and core functionalities, consider leveraging tools like ChatGPT to bust through creative roadblocks. This AI can churn out innovative ideas within seconds, saving you valuable time.
Naming And Branding
A great name can capture your app's essence while also making it memorable. If you're stumped, utilize generative AI tools to sift through name possibilities, logo designs and color palettes quickly. In a world where branding can make or break your product, AI can provide rapid, actionable insights.
UX Design
Your users won't stick around if the app isn't user-friendly, no matter how unique it may be. Collaborate closely with your UX/UI designers and employ AI tools to scrutinize different layout options or existing designs. ChatGPT can offer critiques aimed at maximizing user engagement and minimizing friction.
Coding
If you want to reduce your coding time by up to 50%, consider integrating GitHub Co-Pilot or similar AI-powered tools into your development workflow. These tools offer real-time code suggestions, allowing you to focus on solving bigger and more complex problems.
App Store Optimization (ASO)
An engaging name and well-crafted app description are crucial for visibility on the app store. Utilize ChatGPT to generate keyword-rich descriptions that encapsulate what your app does and why it's worth downloading. Remember, ASO is not just about getting users to find your app; it's about getting them to download it, too.
Go-To-Market Strategy
Don't underestimate the power of a well-thought-out launch plan. Utilize AI tools to gather market insights, perform competitive analysis and outline a robust marketing strategy. This phase is about positioning your app as a must-have, and AI can offer data-driven insights to get you there.
Key Takeaways For Business Leaders
Accelerated Idea Generation And Decision-Making
Generative AI like ChatGPT can significantly speed up brainstorming sessions and decision-making processes. Using generative AI, you can compress the amount of time to produce creative content, such as images, logos and video content, to bring your ideas to market at record speed. The technology can generate numerous viable ideas and solutions within seconds, allowing your team to focus on analyzing and refining the best options. This saves valuable time and resources and can expedite the development process of your project.
Innovation And Competitive Edge
Using AI technology is not just about efficiency and speed; it also represents innovation and forward-thinking. Businesses that leverage AI can achieve a competitive advantage by bringing fresh, exciting and high-quality products to the market faster than their competitors.
AI Collaboration
AI does not replace human talent but instead augments it. AI can handle the heavy lifting of data analysis, idea generation and routine tasks, freeing up your team to focus on the creative, strategic and interpersonal aspects of your projects. This harmonious collaboration between AI and humans can drive growth and success in your business.
Generative AI is a game-changer for business leaders, enabling faster development cycles, more efficient processes and innovative approaches that can give your business a competitive edge in the marketplace. The lessons we learned from this project can be applied by any IT leader or business owner looking to accelerate their technology cycles and bring groundbreaking products to market faster than ever before.
Forbes Technology Council is an invitation-only community for world-class CIOs, CTOs and technology executives. Do I qualify?
