ZD 24.30: More Like This Please
So I heard you like reading up on esoteric things?
In this issue: King excel; automating process with software; big brother is reading your bumper stickers; AI redefining privilege; using AI in your organization and a list of cool newsletters like this one.
The Distilled Spirit
📊 Immortal Excel ()
Excel is perhaps the most business critical software in the world. If it stopped working one day, entire economies would likely grind to a halt. Benn explores Excel's unmatched staying power in the world of data analysis, highlighting why it continues to dominate despite the rise of sophisticated tools. Benn argues that while more advanced platforms exist, Excel’s universal language and user-friendliness ensure its enduring presence in workspaces. Excel isn't going anywhere, and that’s just fine for many.
🌐 Automating Process with Software ()
Steven Sinofsky dives deep into the role of software in automating business processes, explaining how automation reshapes industries. He reflects on the early days of Microsoft and the push for more integrated, automated solutions, emphasizing how software continues to replace manual processes, transforming efficiency and productivity. Sinofsky also discusses the cultural shifts required for organizations to embrace this automation, as well as the potential pitfalls in over-automation or improper implementation.
📷 Big Brother is Reading Your Bumper Stickers (Wired)
License plate readers (LPRs) have evolved beyond tracking vehicles—now they're capturing more personal details like political signs and bumper stickers. In this piece, Wired delves into how these surveillance tools are being used to track not just cars, but the expressions of their drivers. From political affiliations to personal beliefs plastered on cars, this data could be used in ways that raise serious privacy concerns. With LPRs collecting information at scale, the article examines the blurred lines between public safety and overreach, and the risks of profiling based on personal expressions.
☕ Privilege Redefined by AI ()
In this thought-provoking piece, Rex Woodbury dives into the concept of "Privilege Expansion" through the lens of AI. He shares a personal story of using ChatGPT to better understand Robert Frost's The Road Not Taken, showcasing how AI tools democratize access to knowledge and services that were once exclusive or expensive. From personalized tutoring to healthcare solutions and even AI-powered friendships, Woodbury argues that AI removes the human bottleneck, making previously hard-to-access services more available and affordable. As AI integrates deeper into society, it’s reshaping the balance of who gets access to these tools, amplifying both the opportunities and the inequalities in ways we’re only beginning to understand.
🗺 Organizational AI Advice ()
Ethan Mollick dives into how AI is quietly reshaping workplaces, yet many leaders remain unaware of the full extent. While individual workers—dubbed "Secret Cyborgs"—are using AI tools like ChatGPT to significantly boost productivity, this doesn’t always translate to organizational gains. Mollick argues that companies need to rethink their approach to AI, encouraging internal research and development (R&D) rather than relying on external consultants. By fostering a culture of experimentation and sharing, companies can unlock the full potential of AI. He also outlines tactical steps for leveraging both grassroots innovation (the "Crowd") and formal R&D efforts (the "Lab") to drive AI integration and performance improvements.
Feeding the Curiosity Beast
Here is a list of publications I use to feed my curiosity beast — and this newsletter. If you like this kind of publication, these are right up your alley. I would not be shocked if people were not reading many of these already, but in case you are not read on.
- delivers 5 interesting things to your inbox every Tuesday Morning for free, and adds another 10 for paid subscribers. The extra 10 are worth the price of entry, and the first five are usually some of the more interesting reads of the week.
The
delivers a blast of fact-based fresh air nearly every day. The weekly collection is especially strong. Makes for great conversation.When the Going Gets Weird provides a daily dose of some of the most interesting stories around. Always fresh never stale.
- is a great source to keep you current. It is very well curated and does a good job of highlighting important stories you might not have seen otherwise.
If you enjoy this newsletter, you will likely enjoy all of these publications as well.
The Look
In case you were wondering where we got the real real from:
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