In a world cranking out 23 billion e-books worth of stuff every second, what truly deserves your attention? Who designed the pipe, and for what goal? In this special guest post, Lance Shields (Reflective Design Leader, AI + Product Innovation, Ex-Adobe), pushes us to reshape the role of design in the age of AI.

This post is for thinkers, doers, and leaders who utilize the Adizes PAEI model — or wish to. We explore how AI sharpens each role: the Producer, Administrator, Entrepreneur, and Integrator. We call it: Swords & Shields — what AI enhances and what it threatens. We dive into four applied examples, then highlight one critical factor needed now more than ever. Read on. Think better. Lead smarter.

Today, we explore the AI Happiness Divide — why some individuals and organizations thrive with AI, while others fall behind. You’ll find: * A framework of 8 key factors that shape AI-driven success (with 8 more for deeper insight). * Case studies from the robotaxi, video, and coding industries. * Practical questions to assess your own readiness. These factors are not merely theoretical — they serve as practical tools for personal and organizational strategy in the age of AI.