Tools need to work.
And we expect a good result.
If the toaster doesn’t toast we have a problem.
If the spelling feature doesn’t find that mispelled word before you hit send on that email we have a problem.
If an app that says it’ll relieve headaches but actually causes one we have a problem.
We find tools to help us solve problems, expecting a good result.
And if we can’t find the right tool we make one.
At least, that's how it's supposed to work. For most of human history, making tools required specialized knowledge, expensive equipment, or both. You needed a workshop, a factory, a degree. But because of AI and 3D printing anyone can make the tool that will work for them.
I’ve been thinking about this given this idea of personal software becoming a thing because of AI and how much 3D printing has advanced to create parts and objects that you couldn’t find elsewhere.
We live in a time where if you have a problem you can actually solve it yourself. The only thing lacking is the will to do so. The reasons of time and money are quickly becoming excuses because of how fast and cheap things are becoming.
So make something.
Be a toolmaker.
