AI: The Need for Usage Audits

In artificial intelligence, listening to what users actually do has become the guiding principle of development. Research teams have made it a sustainable activity of observation and field feedback. The trajectories of Slack and Instagram, shaped by user behavior, illuminate this logic and its concrete effects.

In AI, the user-centered approach is becoming essential

Product development now relies on a user-centered approach, considered essential, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence. Companies must ensure that their innovations meet real needs, rather than mere assumptions. This focus is on how users actually utilize a service, rather than on the initial intentions of the designers.

AI labs are making it a permanent function

In artificial intelligence labs, auditing observed usage has become an ongoing activity. It allows for the identification of needs by studying concrete interactions, in order to respond more precisely. This approach supports regular adaptation guided by feedback to maintain the product's relevance. It can also lead to the addition of new features or changes in strategic direction.

Slack and Instagram changed course due to user behavior

Slack developed from an internal IRC server, which served as the foundation for a team communication tool. Instagram emerged after narrowing down an initial application to a more limited scope. According to their founders, these trajectories were guided by the observation of actual usage. The creators explain that they adapted to the practices and expectations observed, which led to unexpected product evolutions.