faqs
Did you know AI isn’t as new as you think?
From the moment you unlock your phone with facial recognition to the personalized recommendations on your favorite streaming service, AI is there, working behind the scenes.
AI has been around for decades! Here are some fun examples:
- ELIZA (1966): An early chatbot simulating conversation.
- IBM Watson (2011): Famous for winning “Jeopardy!” while analyzing complex data.
- Siri (2011): Apple’s virtual assistant helping users navigate daily tasks.
- Google Now (2012): An intelligent personal assistant analyzing habits to provide helpful information.
- Alexa (2014): Amazon’s AI powerhouse
"Your AI Cheat Sheet"
"Inside Spark AI Strategy"
- What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)? AI (Artificial Intelligence) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines that can perform tasks such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making. AI can range from simple systems (like a chatbot) to complex systems (like autonomous vehicles).
- What are Large Language Models (LLMs)? LLMs are AI models trained on vast amounts of text data to understand and generate human-like language. Examples of popular LLMs include Open AI- ChatGPT, Google- Gemini, and Anthropic Claude.
- What are GPTs, and how do they work? GPT stands for Generative Pre-trained Transformer, a type of LLM designed to generate human-like text. Think of them like apps for your phone. Your phone is powerful on its own, the apps perform specific tasks.
- What is the difference between generative and predictive AI?
- Generative AI: Creates new content, such as text, images, or music.
- Example: ChatGPT generating a blog post or Sora creating video.
- Predictive AI: Analyzes historical data to predict future outcomes.
- Example: Predicting outcomes based on large datasets.
- Generative AI: Creates new content, such as text, images, or music.
- What are the best ways to protect my data and privacy? To safeguard your data and privacy:
- Avoid sharing sensitive personal or proprietary information with AI tools. Think banking information, social security numbers, passwords, etc.
- Use platforms with robust security protocols and transparent privacy policies.
- Regularly review and manage permissions granted to AI applications.
- Stay informed about the data practices of the AI services you utilize.
- Are there people on the other side reading my chats? Generally, LLM AI interactions are processed by algorithms without human intervention. However, some services review anonymized data to improve their systems. It’s essential to review the privacy policies of the AI tools you use to understand how your data is handled. Note: Proprietary Chatbots on websites are often monitored by people to help them perform better and provide better service.
- I’m already using ChatGPT, but it often provides inaccurate information. To enhance the accuracy of AI-generated content:
- Learn how to Prompt effectively. It is not a matter of just asking; you need to know how to ask and how to follow up on your questions or requests.
- Verify information using trusted external sources.
- Use the latest version of the AI model, as newer versions often have improved accuracy. If they offer web enhancements, use them and ask for a bibliography of result sources.
- Just like the internet of old or even some people, you cannot trust everything you hear or read. It is your responsibility to ensure accuracy.
- Is AI going to take our jobs? AI is transforming the job landscape by automating certain tasks, which will lead to the displacement of some roles. However, it also creates new opportunities. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 indicates that while 92 million jobs may be displaced by 2030, AI and automation are expected to create 170 million new jobs, resulting in a net gain of 78 million jobs. Your job is to learn all you can, so your role is part of the future.
- What is Spark AI Strategy? Spark AI Strategy specializes in empowering businesses and individuals to leverage AI tools for productivity and innovation using generative and predictive AI practices.
- What experience does the Spark Team bring?The team at Spark brings over 90 years combined business leadership, ownership, and expertise in areas such as: business development, marketing, data analytics, web development, IT and operations. Each member has hundreds of hours of hands-on education and business applications in generative and predictive AI and coding.
- How is Spark different from other consulting services? We offer tailored AI strategies, focusing on your unique goals and challenges. Our services include custom GPTs, workshops, and real-time AI support.
- How can Spark help with AI adoption in my business? We help identify key areas for AI integration, train your team, and create custom solutions like automating workflows, content generation, and data analysis.
- What tools does Spark recommend for AI-enhanced workflows?
- We are trained on many of the LLMs but currently prefer and teach to Open AI’s ChatGPT model.
- Google Deep Research: Part of the advanced Google Gemini model.
- Leonardo AI: Image and video production.
- Otter AI: Live transcription for meetings.
- Crystal Knows: Personality profiling for communication.
- Perplexity AI: For real-time research.
- Why should I consider paying for an AI tool? Paid AI tools often provide:
- Improved data and security protocols.
- Enhanced accuracy and performance.
- Tools for integrating data (e.g., PDFs, charts, and images).
- Access to the latest information and features.
- Better memory for ongoing conversations.
- What if I have never used AI before OR I am an experienced user? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, Spark offers services tailored to your level of expertise. For beginners, we simplify the basics, ensuring you gain confidence and clarity. For advanced users, we provide cutting-edge strategies and tools to elevate your workflows and achieve even greater efficiency.
- How do I know if Spark is right for me or my team? We offer a free 30-minute consultation to learn more about your goals, experience, and roadblocks. This helps us determine how Spark can best support you and your team’s success.
- Am I too old to use AI? Absolutely not! Michelle and her team have taught individuals of all ages, including retired CEOs who now use AI for everything from creating board reports to planning vacations.
- What’s with the glass images on yourwebsite? Michelle has been a glass sculptor for over 40 years. Her work can be found in corporate and personal collections nationwide, a museum, and numerous books. You can see more about it at www.zaximo.com. The images on the site combine her love for glass and AI for image creation.
