Prompt writer

Prompt writer, prompt engineer and prompt architect, are all relatively new terms which describe roles that relate to the first step in the efficient use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Each of the terms may have a slightly different focus and because the use of AI in different fields is relatively new and rapidly expanding there are differing opinions, viewpoints, understandings and interpretations of the need for these terms and what they mean.

Traditionally prompters were individuals hiding in the wings of a theatre with a play script, ready to remind actors of their lines in case they had forgotten them. Today prompters use language to effectively give instructions or appropriate commands in written text for AI tools to produce anything from specific texts, to images or videos to designs. The role differs from terms like programme engineer, programme architect or software coding because these might be considered the basis of computing technology and are more deterministic, in that computing technology follows a programme or code without interpretation. Prompting on the other hand relies on creating the right instructions to achieve the desired interpretation by the AI model and the intended outputs.

In the realm of the design and construction of buildings the use of AI is a recent but rapidly expanding field that can save time through out the work stages of projects, from concept design, to detailing, scheduling, on site construction, and snagging through to the operation of a building. However AI-based generative tools which might be used to design concept schemes, detail drawings, check regulations or programmes need language based instructions, and it these that are considered prompts, the writers of these becoming an possible future role, with increasing significance.

Some sources describe prompt writers as being more concerned with creative prompts such as to enable the creation of images or graphics, prompt architects crafting high-quality prompts for certain individual outcomes, and prompt engineers more concerned with technical queries that are replicable. Though opinion can differ widely. The nature of prompts in general is that they should be simple and clear, but allow for refinement, prompt writing is an iterative process and many prompts and results maybe needed before the desired output is achieved. Writers need to be aware of context when writing their prompts and consider the limitations of the language models or tools they are using, but have a good command of the relevant language and specifics of the outcomes required.

These types of roles are most likely to only increase because of the broadening number of applications that may be making use of AI technology in a wide variety to situations, including increased automation of manual tasks in many industries. This brings with it the need to carry out work with a cultural understanding relevant to the local context where AI is being employed, an understanding of user focussed design or production outcomes and in particular an awareness of ethical considerations.

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