Eight intriguing articles from September.

A fun mishmash of topics in this month's Super8, sharing the single theme of 'change'. Changes to our ways of working, the ways we interact with technology, the ways we create and the ways we can effect change on ourselves. As is often said, the only constant is change. Simon Hedt is this month's curator and has pulled together a broad palette of insightful articles that will get you thinking about the changes which may be impacting you and your work. So pour yourself a cuppa and have a scroll. Welcome to Super8 in September.

1. Should you have to pay for online privacy?

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• Read the full article here.
• Created by: BBC.
• Contributed by: Doug Ross.

There is a growing trend of "consent or pay" models online. Websites offer users a choice: consent to data tracking for personalised ads or pay for privacy. This raises ethical and legal concerns, which are currently being scrutinised in the UK to ensure that consent is freely given and withdrawable without penalty. Some media companies, especially those reliant on ads, are adopting this model, but critics ask if it's a fair or transparent choice for consumers.

2. Career site predictions 2024.

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• Read the full article here.
• Created by: Jim Taylor.
• Contributed by: Simon Hedt.

Career sites are seeing major transformations, driven by both AI and new hiring trends. Companies are increasingly focusing on skill-based recruitment over traditional resume-based methods. AI is supporting content creation that attracts talent, while helping to personalise candidate experiences and pouring rocket fuel on the sophistication of job matching systems. The arms race for the personalised experience is at full speed in this sector, leading to more efficient and inclusive hiring processes. But for an agency that hires slow and likes the human touch, our eyebrows remain sceptically raised at flashy promises.

3. Why AI isn't going to make art.

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• Read the full article here.
• Created by: Ted Chiang.
• Contributed by: Sebastian Griffiths.

Following on from last month's dive into an AI's attempt at comedy, this article questions the limitations of AI in creative processes. While the scale of computational growth in models like ChatGPT is staggering, Ted Chiang argues they lack the essential element of human art: intentionality. In other words, why bother? Art involves a vast number of decisions, from large-scale conceptual choices to small, detailed ones, which AI is still struggling to replicate. This article lands pretty firmly on one side of the debate, but as a species, could this be a case of 'pride goeth before the fall'?

4. The undeniable utility of CSS.

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• Read the full article here.
• Created by: Josh Comeau.
• Contributed by: Isabel Silvis.

Josh's article highlights the powerful utility a new CSS feature brings to web development. Often referred to as a "parent selector," :has() allows developers to apply styles based on the presence of child elements, which was not possible with CSS previously. The article explores real-world use cases, such as enhancing state-based styling and even creating JavaScript-free dark modes. With widespread browser support, :has() opens up new possibilities for more dynamic, responsive and efficient styling solutions.

5. There's something about a run in the rain.

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• Read the full article here.
• Created by: Jeff Barton.
• Contributed by: Stefan Imbesi.

Running in the rain can transform an ordinary run into an extraordinary one. Jeff Barton from Runners Life explores the unique experience of running in wet weather, uncovering the mental and physical benefits. Rain provides a sensory shift, cleansing the mind and enhancing focus, while also keeping runners cool and invigorated. With a few of us keen pavement pounders at August, we love how Jeff celebrates the magic of getting your hair wet while reaching your PB. Just make sure you air your shoes out afterwards.

6. Neurodiversity in the workplace: Why it matters.

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• Read the full article here.
• Created by: Kelly Luc.
• Contributed by: Mike McCusker.

Kelly Luc from Culture Amp does an expert job of revealing the importance of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace. Despite the valuable skills neurodivergent individuals bring, they often face significant barriers to employment and retention. Kelly underscores the need for inclusive cultures, reasonable accommodations and tailored learning opportunities to foster a supportive work environment for neurodiverse employees. A great read for managers and their teams!

7. Rick Rubin on taking communion with Johnny Cash and not rushing creativity.

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• Read the full article here.
• Created by: Rachel Martin.
• Contributed by: Sarah El-Atm.

Rachel Martin from NPR explores Rick Rubin's reflections on the intersection of creativity, spirituality and his collaborations with Johnny Cash, as discussed in his new book. Rubin delves into how religion and spirituality influenced Cash’s music, offering insights into their partnership and how they approached art with deep spiritual grounding. Sarah has been walking around the office all week with this book open, reading choice quotes out loud and tripping over furniture.

8. Gen-Z slang is revolutionising work jargon.

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• Read the full article here.
• Created by: Jack Kelly.
• Contributed by: Bridget Noonan.

A fun and fascinating look at the increasing use of Gen Z slang in the workplace. Terms like "slay," "bet," and "lit" are becoming more common in Powerpoint presentations and work retreats as younger employees enter the space, causing the rest of us to take a moment and reflect on whether we were ever cool. In an interesting take, Jack Kelly looks at what impact an open mind can have on creating inclusive workspaces. We just know that those kids will be our age one day, grappling with the latest rendition of "rizz" and being secretly jealous of our dogs' social lives and time spent in bed.