Why I'm building a note taking app without AI
A software developer explains their decision to build a note-taking app called Docket without integrating AI features. The author argues that active note-taking is a cognitive process that helps professionals distill value from meetings, which AI-driven transcription cannot replicate.
Why it matters
This reflects a growing counter-trend in the tech industry that prioritizes human cognitive engagement over automated productivity tools.
When I talk to people about what I'm building, I give 'em the pitch on Docket being a note taking system specifically designed for regular meetings.
Very commonly the first thing they reply with is something along the lines of: ah, so, with AI right?
What? But now I just have AI tools transcribe all my calls and take summaries. I haven't written notes in months.
Good for you, but you're not who I'm building Docket for.
I'm building Docket for people like me who want to actually use their own brain to distill important notes out of interactions in meetings and find a lot of value in doing so. Writing notes yourself as a driver for distilling what's important. For remembering what matters, in what can often be a lot of noise, filler, and formality. Taking (or not taking) actions with an inherent sense of their priority.
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