AI's Impact on Content

Perhaps this is more subjective on my end — but I feel that the quality of a lot of DevRel (Developer Relations) content, is falling short. It feels quite monotonous. And from what I've been observing, it does appear to be a format that many (what I'll refer to as) 'code-centric' engineers enjoy. This format can make it challenging for some (such as ‘generalists’ and some neurodiverse) to learn new technologies, or source adequate guidance. For instance, a lot of the web3 content that exists today, lacks character. In part, because concepts tend to be obfuscated by buzzwords and needless complexity.

AI's Proliferation

While I cannot claim to see into the future, my brain has a tendency (even involuntarily) to identify patterns and trends; and then draw conclusions based on these observations. And what I am seeing is that the ability to obtain things directly via AI, will force DevRel folk to appraise their existing approaches to putting out content. Perhaps most especially in the realm of HOW they communicate.

AI the Facilitator

I believe that AI can enhance certain DevRel efforts, such as:

• Constructing writing prompts for technical writers

• Speechwriting aids, summaries etc

• AI can transcribe in real-time

• And possibly even translate livestreams into different languages for different audiences

For those who prefer to automate their post-production workflow as much as possible; then AI tools that can easily chop up film, stitch frames together, and potentially even colour grading, might be useful. Particularly if you’re putting out visual (albeit non-artistic) content frequently.

Producing coding examples can become an easier process for DevRel creators, too. Data only exists about the past, however. Any LLM is inherently contingent upon the data that it is trained on, how that data is procured and processed etc.

This means an AI’s ability to facilitate producing coding examples, will always rely upon having data on specific programming languages, protocols, technologies etc. AI is the culmination of datapoints, to a degree. So the happy ideal is: AI as an enhancer/facilitator, rather than a replacer.

Communication

Something I've observed is that code-centric engineers can read the most boring, un-engaging piece of text and still extract value from it. This fascinates me, as my own brain is the opposite. But it stands to reason, that if AI can make it easier to obtain this data; engineers will likely gravitate towards it.

And if this happens: where does that leave DevRel's who have no true anchor points in their content (beyond of the data itself)?

I therefore believe, that if your DevRel content is tantamount to a data dump, AI is probably going to eat your lunch. But for those who engage their audiences on a human level, you will almost always be in demand. If a machine can offer what you can offer, then default to your human sensibilities. This will always be a differentiator in the era of artificial intelligence.