From AI First to User First

Explore the journey of Spacemaker, an Oslo-based startup developing an AI tool for urban planning, in this NDC Oslo 2021 conference talk. Discover how the company evolved from an AI-first approach to a user-centric model, leading to its acquisition by Autodesk for over 2 billion NOK. Learn about the challenges faced, iterative development process, and key insights gained in creating AI-powered solutions for better city planning. Gain valuable lessons on product leadership, user feedback integration, and the importance of adaptability in the rapidly changing field of AI and urban development.

Intro
What is SpaceMaker
Why SpaceMaker
COVID
Cities
Construction
Digital tools
The user
Working iteratively
Translation into math
AI engine
Problem solved
Good solution
Not happy
Black box trap
AI on the shoulder
User process
Waterfall process
Demo
User feedback
Agile
The Trio
Product leadership
Aligning
Forums
Alignment
Example
Learnings
Integration with Autodesk
The human mind
Early adopters
Changeability
Building Blocks
Aesthetics
Challenges