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The Fast Company Impact Council is a private membership community of influential leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience. Members pay annual membership dues for access to peer learning and thought leadership opportunities, events and more. Most ordinary people know little about the calculus, statistics, linear algebra, logic, and programming languages required to design projects and products to leverage artificial intelligence. However, we are not exempt from using products and services that rely on AI. If we do not learn how to maximize these tools, our organizationsbusinesses, schools, and governmentswill have less ability to generate income and a lower quality of life compared to those who do. What is most unsettling is the general lack of knowledge about logic, mathematics, and grammatical syntax that may affect AIs creation and usage. Set theory Consider set theory in mathematics, introduced indirectly in elementary school. Basic concepts like classification, grouping, and counting objects, form its foundation. During middle school, students learn set definitions, notation, and representations (listing elements, Venn diagrams), set operations (union, intersection, difference, and complements), and relationships between sets (subsets, empty sets, disjointed sets, universal sets). By high school, students face set theory with greater complexity. Applications are presented in discrete mathematics, relationships between sets and probabilities, numerical sets and related algebraic operations, and advanced concepts to introduce mathematical logic. You might be wondering where this is going. Logical reasoning Set theory feeds into logic: the science and art of reasoning correctly. Logic studies the principles of valid thought, structuring rules and methods that help evaluate the consistency and validity of arguments, deductions, and propositions. Modern mathematics is built on set theory, itself a logical system. Logic provides the structure and principles underpinning mathematical reasoning. Concepts such as implication, equivalence, negation, and quantification are fundamental logical tools used in mathematics. Logical reasoning uses symbols and formulas to represent propositions and inferences. It is essential for solving mathematical problems. In mathematics, logic explores topics like set theory and computability theory. Were circling back to the topic again. Logic helps children (and adults) break problems into smaller, more manageable parts and tackle them systematically. When solving a puzzle, logical reasoning helps them identify patterns, rules, or constraints. Chess, Sudoku, mazes, and building blocks simultaneously develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills. In math and science, solving problems logically is intrinsic to solving equations, understanding patterns, and conducting experiments. Grammar And what about grammar? Although the proposition might seem counterintuitive, grammatical syntax has a direct relationship with mathematics, particularly set theory and logic. In traditional grammar, syntax refers to the set of rules dictating how words and phrases are organized to form sentences. Grammatical classes (nouns, verbs, adjectives) combine according to rules, and sentences have hierarchical structures (clauses, phrases). Syntax rules determine whether a sentence is grammatically correct, and in linguistic analysis (parsing), understanding sentences involves breaking them into parts. Noam Chomsky’s generative grammar theory describes the implicit rules and principles underlying natural language structure. It demonstrates how sentences are generated from a finite set of rules to create infinite possible expressions in a language. Programming languages also have syntaxrules determining the correct structure of commands and expressions. Code elements (variables, functions, loops) combine using the specific rules of the language to form programs, which also have hierarchical structures (functions, blocks, modules). Like linguistic analysis, compilers and interpreters analyze code by breaking it into tokens (parts) and examining its structure. Algorithms and AI You might think this article was supposed to be about using artificial intelligence, not creating computational models. And you’re right. One important concept for using AI’s capabilities is the notion of intervals. Defining intervals enable users to separate, structure, search, and manipulate information in databases or directly within documents. This concept, widely used in set theory, is fundamental to logic, and connects logic to computer science, artificial intelligence, and dynamic systems. It also plays a critical role in syntax, particularly in structural analysis, grammatical hierarchy, and even natural language processing. Ultimately, mathematics, logic, and grammatical syntax are fundamental to structuring algorithms. It’s worth emphasizing the classical definition of an algorithm, originating in the 9th century: a finite set of well-defined, step-by-step instructions for completing a task or solving a problem. Develop natural algorithms The brain has specialized areas for numerical and logical processing (parietal lobe) and specific regions dedicated to grammar and syntax (Brocas and Wernickes areas). These regions integrate their functions to create dynamic problem-solving strategies that mimic algorithmic thinking, unconsciously generating “natural algorithms” to tackle everyday challenges, such as planning a route or making decisions based on available data, evaluating options, and predicting outcomes. The correlation between mathematics, grammar, and the brains ability to create natural algorithms for solving daily problems reveals a shared reliance on structured logical thinking and generative creativity. This interconnectedness highlights the brains remarkable ability to abstract rules, recognize patterns, and develop natural algorithms to navigate the complexities of daily life. A logical proposition is that our young people must be well-versed in fundamental mathematics and written language proficiency for a single purpose: to train their cognitive engines to develop natural algorithms, and then artificial ones, which increasingly mimic the human brain. This way they can keep up with the times, which are being radically reshaped by humanitys computational capabilities. For parents, a logical takeaway is the idea of increasing their childrens instructional time in this cognitive set. What skills are most important? Calibrating the educational curriculum and workload has been a persistent challenge for educators. The current technological revolution makes this challenge even more pronounced. What is the correct workload for each subject to keep young people in step with evolution? Will mathematics, logic, and grammar gain more importance than subjects like history, geography, or chemistry? A realistic perspective considers these skills as foundational as others, which are also taught in knowledge blockslessons, sections, chapters, umbered exercises, and, ultimately, structured intervals. Indeed, this structure is what students use globally, with tools like Google and now ChatGPT to support their studies (in best-case scenario). Value creation We are not looking for passive users if we aim for a better world. Technologies based on set theory, grammar, and logic were the foundation for social media and other revolutionary applications in recent years. Billions around the world improved their cultural awareness and their daily life, but we cant exactly say that these applications created value for all of them. The common usability of AI, such as addressing everyday inquiries, solving household essentials, drafting texts, creating videos, or using preset tools in the workplace, will certainly deliver significant benefits to the general population, much like its predecessor technologies did. However, this time, technology should go further by driving value creation that is more equally distributed, enhancing economic output for people around the world. Rodrigo Magnago is the director of rere.eco.
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E-Commerce
The Fast Company Impact Council is a private membership community of influential leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience. Members pay annual membership dues for access to peer learning and thought leadership opportunities, events and more. Its no secret that corporate and individual giving plays an increasingly significant role in employee satisfaction, providing top talent with pride and a sense of purpose. As a result, many companies, including startups, are finding flexible ways to match funds, allowing people to donate in flexible ways that ignite them and their passion. In 2023, Americans gave over $557 billion to charities from individuals, foundations, and corporations. However, according to a 2023 study from Ipsos Global Trends, 72% of consumers are concerned that in the future, governments and public services wont look after citizens, thereby widening the large gap nonprofits must step in to fill. Where to donate? When the need is vast, the priorities unclear, how do people, communities, and organizations decide where to donate? I wrote about values-based philanthropy and how it is foundational to ensure impact. From the donor who shows up consistently with $20, to the recognized philanthropist changing the game, like MacKenzie Scott and Melinda French Gates, values alignment is the first step in generating trust, an intrinsic component to philanthropy. It is also a way for companies to live their values and engage stakeholders, employees, and consumers.For example, over the years Google employees have participated in annual flu shot campaigns. Google asked employees to donate to UNICEF when they received a flu shot, supporting UNICEF in providing routine immunizations for children outside the United States. Google matched employee donations and the campaign raised over $800,000. The funds supported programs to immunize Syrian children in Iraq, Rohingya children in Bangladesh, and Brazilian children residing in the most remote areas of the Amazon. Google has also been a critical emergency giving partner of UNICEF. Employees have donated millions of dollars over the years through its workplace giving program to support UNICEF’s humanitarian response efforts globally. Flexible funding Flexible funds allow charitable organizations to more equitably allocate money where it is most needed. Yet, many partners like to have a say in where their money goes. Weve had some partners split their support, with a percentage going to a specific emergency or program area while the rest supports flexible funding. Baxter International Foundation, for example, has supported UNICEFs water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programming since 2020, based on the shared values around access to clean, safe water for all children. Our trust-based partnership demonstrates that leveraging cross-sectoral expertise creates meaningful community health and impact as we work toward our goal of a more equitable world for children. The Foundations leadership was so inspired by our vision and impact, that it approved an additional grant to our Every Child Fund in 2023, for three years of flexible funding. Aligning philanthropic efforts with a companys values and employee passions creates a sense of purpose, deep engagement, and retention. Innovation and competition are the fuel of the corporate sector and our partners proudly show that they are leaders in these areas. As the need for philanthropic support continues to grow, companies can embrace and live out their values in an era where employees increasingly seek purpose-driven work environments. Companies that integrate giving into their core values and operations will likely see the greatest returnsboth in employee satisfaction and societal impact. Michele Walsh is executive vice president and chief philanthropy officer of UNICEF USA.
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E-Commerce
The Fast Company Impact Council is a private membership community of influential leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience. Members pay annual membership dues for access to peer learning and thought leadership opportunities, events and more. The emergence of generative AI and digital transformation has redefined customer-company relationships, empowering consumers like never before. As argued in a previous article I wrote, today’s customer is no longer a mere segment or target consumer, but a brand seeking vendors to help create their unique identity. Companies must now redefine their value propositions to meet these evolving expectations. In recent years, we’ve seen digital platforms like NikeID and physical innovations like Coca-Cola Freestyle allow consumers to customize products within company-defined parameters. This trend towards bespoke experiences is expanding, with companies offering customers greater control in exchange for premium pricing and individualized experiences. Droz: A case study in radical co-creation During a recent visit to Switzerland, I witnessed a remarkable example of customer-company co-creation at Jaquet Droz, a luxury watchmaker established in 1738. Now part of the Swatch Group, this Maison has embarked on a radical journey embracing customer collaboration. Led by CEO Alain Delamuraz, Jaquet Droz launched the “JD 8.0: A Disruptive Legacy” strategy, focusing on creating unique pieces in partnership with customers. The company took the bold step of dismantling its retailer network to work directly with clients. Jaquet Droz built specialized collaboration studios where customers can discuss their desired pieces with artisans. These state-of-the-art facilities allow for real-time interaction and step-by-step follow-up throughout the production process, even down to selecting specific colors for the timepiece. This collaboration may last as long as a year to ensure that the customers exact vision is captured to the level of a shade of a color. While the customer is not an expert on watchmakingthis is what Jaquet Droz brings to the tablehe is the ultimate expert on his preferences and wishes. For such a storied brand to be willing to collaborate so deeply with its customers and enable their dreams requires a great deal of humility and a clarity of the customers role in their existence. High-profile collaborations When Bon Jovi wanted to commemorate the bands 40th anniversary, it was the unique co-creation collaboration with Jaquet Droz team that resulted in Tourbillon Skelet Red GoldBon Jovi. When a Canadian customer and a Rolling Stones fan wanted to ensure that his love for the music is alive every day, The Rolling Stones AutomatonExile on Main Street was created especially for them. For a brand that started its journey in music by crafting special chirping bird clocks for European elite, crafting music-related timepieces was a natural continuation of its legacy. But their co-creation does not stop with music. From nature-related timepieces to top of the line Tourbillon complications , the company is fully dedicated to fulfilling its customers dreams. The courage to innovate Jaquet Droz’s decision to cease working with retailers and boutiques in favor of direct customer engagement was both courageous and risky. This move provided the freedom to focus entirely on individual client needs, setting a new standard in the luxury watch industry. While some may argue that this level of collaboration is a privilege reserved for the wealthy, the example set by Jaquet Droz is likely to inspire other companies to find ways to democratize the customer co-creation model. How can you start a co-creation process with your customers? Here are few steps to consider: Mindset first: Adapt to the fact that your customers are brand owners with district opinions, not just consumers of your end products. Curious listening: Redesign your discovery process to ask different questions and seek design guidance. Transform to a tool kit: Consider your expertise and skills as part of a toolbox available to craft solutions with your customers not for them. Design collaborative space: Like Jaquet Droz, create dedicated spaces that will foster collaboration and reciprocal dialogue. Joint journey management: Include your customer input throughout the creation journey. Adapt as needed based on feedback. One-of-a-kind creations: Focus on creating solutions that will reflect not just the customer needs, but their brand as well. Share credit: Ensure that your customers contribution to the creation is respected and expressed in the final product. Ongoing support: The sales are never over as you keep on updating the solution as technology evolves and the customers expectations shift. Charge accordingly: Co-creation does not mean you need to lose money. It should lead to a perfect solution at a premium price over the one-size-fits-all sold today. One-of-a-kind story: While your deep knowledge of the processes and production are evident, respect that your customers will know best what they desire and what story they want to craft for themselves. Those stories reflect their identity and therefore will always be one of a kind. Customer co-creation is here to stay. As more manufacturers explore bespoke offerings, Jaquet Droz’s commitment to collaborationevidenced by their new studios and direct-to-consumer approachestablishes a path forward for the industry. The bold steps taken by this watchmaker demonstrate that sometimes, to move forward, companies must take risks and reimagine their entire business model. As this trend continues, we can expect to see more innovative approaches to customer collaboration across various industries, potentially making co-creation accessible to a broader audience. Lior Arussy is a global transformation expert and the author of Dare to Author!
Category:
E-Commerce
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