Box shows us how to do AI-first memos

Three companies have recently published memos stating their intent to become AI-first companies.

Box.

Shopify.

Duolingo.

Each memo puts Gen AI tools at the heart of their transformation.

Yet they pull in very different directions.

Here's why I really like Aaron Levie's memo for Box.

Shopify tells staff that AI fluency is now part of every job description. Promotions now ride on proof of prompt skills.

Duolingo tells staff future staffing hinges on an ability to guide, audit, and refine AI rather than to craft lessons line by line.

Both plans point the spotlight at staffing with workers and contractors.

Box takes a different route.

1. Start with the eliminating drudgery work

2. Measure success on time saved and trust preserved, not AI-skills bragging

3. Provide voluntary labs for upskilling, boosting retention.

4. Run oversight through one lean AI governance council instead of a maze of “AI champion” roles.

Success is measured by a simple question.

Does AI save time, drive focus, and maintain trust?

Not AI-skills padding or bragging. Not staffing decisions.

Which makes Box's AI-first principles the model to copy.