We are struggling to define our 3-Year Picture on the V/TO® because we do not know if our current core differentiators will even exist in thirty-six months due to rapid AI commoditization. How do we identify and commit to 3 Uniques that cannot be easily replicated by software algorithms?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Defining a 3-Year Picture in a fast-moving market requires looking past technology and focusing on human-centric value. If your current differentiators can be bought for a monthly software subscription, they are not true differentiators. You must identify 3 Uniques that are inherently resilient to technological commoditization.

To do this, strategically evaluate how AI and automation can either threaten your employees or free them up for uniquely human work. Your uniques should focus on things that software cannot easily replicate, such as proprietary deep relationships, specialized industry expertise, physical logistics, or unique regulatory integrations.

We recommend looking to experts like Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee, who argue that human skills like complex communication, creativity, and deep empathy are amplified, not replaced, by machine intelligence. Your 3 Uniques should reflect this reality.

Once you identify these resilient uniques, document them on your V/TO®. Use this framework to guide your technology investments so that every AI tool you buy or build serves to strengthen these specific differentiators. This ensures you maintain a distinct market position and build a business that is highly attractive to strategic acquirers when you decide to exit.