The AI Tool All Project Managers Should Be Using...
Education
Introduction
As project managers, we are always on the lookout for powerful tools that can enhance our effectiveness and productivity. Today, I want to introduce you to a versatile and reputable AI software known as Perplexity that you can leverage in your day-to-day role as a project manager. In this article, I will discuss what Perplexity is, how it works, and share three valuable use cases demonstrating its potential.
What is Perplexity?
Perplexity is a cutting-edge AI tool that operates similarly to ChatGPT while offering unique features that set it apart. Built on the model used by OpenAI’s GPT-3.5, Perplexity boasts its own standalone large language model and natural language processing (NLP) capabilities. One of its standout features is the ability to pull information from various web sources, citing links directly within its responses. This means that when you receive an answer, you can easily verify the information by referring to the provided sources.
To access Perplexity, simply navigate to perplexity.ai or search for it in your browser. Currently, there's no requirement for account sign-up, although a Pro Plan is available for those interested. For the purpose of this article, I used their entirely free model, which provides ample functionality.
Use Cases of Perplexity for Project Managers
Here are three different use cases that illustrate how you can effectively use Perplexity as a project manager:
1. Creating a Project Plan
You can generate a comprehensive project plan by inputting a simple prompt. For example, entering "create a project plan for a software project aiming to deploy a new product to a range of clients, including major milestones, key deliverables, and tasks" yields a detailed outline almost instantly. Perplexity provides major milestones, subtasks, and key deliverables clearly organized, which you can further refine or adjust according to your needs.
2. Expanding Project Management Knowledge
As a project manager, it’s vital to keep learning. You can ask Perplexity for clarifications or definitions relating to project management terms and methodologies. For instance, a query about Agile methodology prompts Perplexity to summarize it convincingly with definitions and key characteristics, all while providing reputable sources for further reading. This amalgamation of information makes it easier to understand the subject matter without searching through multiple resources manually.
3. Summarizing Meeting Minutes
Time is of the essence when it comes to summarizing meeting minutes. You can copy and paste meeting notes into Perplexity and prompt it to "summarize these meeting minutes into five short concise bullet points." Within seconds, you receive a clear and concise summary, saving you precious time and ensuring that all critical points are captured.
Conclusion
Perplexity is an exceptional tool that project managers should consider leveraging. Whether you are creating project plans, expanding your knowledge, or summarizing meeting minutes, it can significantly enhance your productivity. For users currently utilizing paid plans of other AI tools, Perplexity may serve as a more cost-effective alternative.
If you have any questions, comments, or feedback about this tool, feel free to drop them down below. Happy project managing!
Keyword
Perplexity, AI tool, project management, project plan, Agile methodology, meeting minutes, natural language processing, productivity.
FAQ
1. What is Perplexity?
Perplexity is a free-to-use AI tool that offers capabilities similar to ChatGPT and pulls information from various web sources while citing them.
2. How can Perplexity help project managers?
Perplexity can assist project managers in creating project plans, expanding their knowledge on project management topics, and summarizing meeting minutes efficiently.
3. Is there a cost associated with using Perplexity?
There is a free model available, along with a Pro Plan for users who require additional features.
4. Can I verify the information provided by Perplexity?
Yes, Perplexity cites the sources for its answers, allowing you to verify the information easily.
5. How quickly can I receive answers using Perplexity?
Perplexity provides responses almost instantly, making it a valuable tool when you need quick information.
