11 Building Your AI Workflow
Up to this point, you have learned how to:
- start with a position
- use AI to extend thinking
- interrogate outputs
- make results defensible
- apply AI in real workflows
The next step is to build your own workflow.
11.1 The Core Principle
Do not use AI randomly. Use it within a defined workflow.
A workflow gives you:
- consistency
- clarity
- control
11.2 What Is an AI Workflow?
An AI workflow is a structured way of working where:
- each step has a purpose
- AI is used intentionally
- human judgment remains central
11.3 The CDI Workflow Model
You can use this simple structure:
11.3.1 1. Define Position
- What is the problem?
- What do you think?
- What do you want to achieve?
11.3.2 2. Use AI to Extend
- Generate ideas
- Structure approach
- Identify gaps
11.3.3 3. Interrogate Output
- What assumptions are present?
- What is missing?
- Is it aligned with your position?
11.3.4 4. Make It Defensible
- Rewrite in your own words
- Justify reasoning
- Add limitations
11.3.5 5. Decide and Act
- Make a decision
- Implement
- Communicate
11.4 Visual Summary
Position → AI → Interrogate → Defensible → Decide
11.5 Adapting to Your Work
Your workflow may vary depending on your domain.
11.5.1 Analysis
- Position → AI (methods) → Test → Interpret → Decide
11.5.2 Writing
- Position → AI (structure) → Draft → Refine → Finalize
11.5.3 Decision-making
- Position → AI (options) → Evaluate → Decide
11.6 Keep It Simple
A workflow does not need to be complex.
Even this is enough:
- Start with a position
- Use AI
- Question the output
- Make it your own
- Act
11.7 Iteration Matters
Your workflow is not static.
It improves over time.
After each use, reflect:
- What worked?
- What was unclear?
- What can be improved?
Then adjust.
11.8 Common Mistake: No Workflow
Without a workflow:
- AI is used inconsistently
- results vary
- reasoning becomes fragmented
11.9 Common Mistake: Over-Complex Workflow
Too many steps can:
- slow you down
- reduce clarity
Balance is important.
11.10 Personalizing Your Workflow
Your workflow should reflect:
- your type of work
- your level of expertise
- your goals
It should be:
- practical
- repeatable
- adaptable
11.11 Key Insight
A workflow turns:
- random interaction
into:
- structured reasoning
Consistency in process leads to consistency in results.
11.12 Takeaway
- Build a simple, structured workflow
- Keep AI within that workflow
- Maintain human control
- Improve over time
This is how AI use becomes:
- systematic
- reliable
- aligned with real work