What is The Urban Prompt?
The Urban Prompt is a personal blog/newsletter that imagines the future by exploring the intersection of urbanism, sustainability, and generative AI.
Written for sustainability-conscious citizens and technology professionals, I document my journey learning to build AI applications, and explore interesting developments happening in cities around the globe.
Generative AI, a rapidly evolving category of artificial intelligence, generates new content based on massive amounts of existing data. Building on decades of technological advancement in multiple sectors like natural language processing (NLP), we’re seeing it actively improve productivity and drive innovation across many industries.
Large Language Models (LLM), like the popular ChatGPT, are at the forefront of text-based generative AI. They learn the complex patterns and relationships of human language, allowing them to do a wide range of tasks like write emails, summarize reports, and translate between languages with impressive accuracy. I’m excited to explore their full potential, along with other forms of generative AI, to streamline work and unlock new possibilities.
As the world population urbanizes, cities will play a critical role in tackling climate change. “Many countries will face challenges in meeting the needs of their growing urban populations, including for housing, transportation, energy systems and other infrastructure; as well as for employment and basic services such as education and health care”, says DESA (UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs).
Some of many areas where AI can enable urban change:
Urban Planning: enhanced data-driven decision making for building new neighbourhoods, publics spaces, amenities, etc.
Resource Efficiency: optimize energy use in buildings, improve power storage, better waste management.
Smarter Infrastructure: intelligent public transport systems to minimize commute times and emissions.
Adaptation: better predict weather patterns and prepare for natural disasters.
Civic Engagement: AI chatbots can offer 24/7 assistance with city services.
My goal is to publish bi-weekly, alternating between urbanism topics and my ongoing exploration of AI.
I write content with three guiding principles:
Practical: Break down ideas into everyday, actionable language. Real-world examples, thoughtful use of visuals, tables and graphs.
Data-Driven: Insights are backed by evidence, assumptions are identified proactively. Content reflects my current understanding based on the most recent available information.
Ethical: Mindful of negative implications, and advocate for human-centred, responsible solutions.
About Me
I’m a Toronto-based operations/product manager fascinated by how generative AI can advance our careers, especially as we face increasing disruptions to our daily lives due to extreme heat, rising sea levels, and unpredictable weather patterns. Growing up in a small suburb outside of Toronto, I developed a passion for exploring different cityscapes, along with a growing concern for how climate change will impact future generations.
Working at tech startups over the last decade, I’ve honed my skills in building tools and automations that streamline operational processes and enhance user experiences. With a Communications degree and a passion for lifelong learning, I’ve developed a resourceful approach to acquiring new knowledge and incorporating diverse perspectives into my work. I see immense potential for generative AI and LLMs to revolutionize the way we work and access information. I’m committed to share my learnings to hold myself accountable and showcase its value and accessibility for others🫡
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I’m an expert at nothing but curiosity - input and expertise from all domains is appreciated to maintain a well-rounded perspective while I build this out. General feedback is also welcome.
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