Keeping track of generative AI functionality is a challenge. Some of us find it fun, but those who make decisions, invest, train, and invest probably find it frustrating.

The ability for end users to customize AIs like ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini, and Claude can make a big difference in the value for us individually and for organizations. OpenAI has custom GPTs, where you upload your own documents and instruct the AI how to interact with others. Claude has its Projects. There are ways to customize Copilot. Until now, the primary method of leveraging Gemini with custom documents was the use of NotebookLM, Google's AI-enabled notetaking and collaboration tool.

Then along came Gems.

Google posted about Gems on its Gemini blog a month ago, and in its change log, Google describes Gems:

Gemini Advanced and Gemini for Google Workspace add-on priority access: Introducing Gems, custom AI experts for any topic

• What: Gems are a simple way to customize Gemini towards your specific goals. In a few steps, you can create a Gem by listing specific instructions, details, or even step-by-step workflows. Gems simplify your work, automate repetitive prompts, and empower you to accomplish more with less effort. Your Gems can even act as an expert and adopt your preferred tone or style to help you accomplish your personal goals. Gems are available in most languages Opens in a new window for Gemini Advanced users and Gemini for Workspace add-on subscribers.

• Why: With Gems you can complete tasks more efficiently, in the way you want them done. Whether you need guidance or need to turn your day-to-day productivity and creativity tasks into repeatable workflows, Gems are your custom team of AI experts to help you minimize repetitive prompting and focus on deeper, more creative collaboration with Gemini.

There are pre-designed Gems available to all; the ability to create your own Gems is limited to those with Gemini Advanced.

The AIs are not known for being fact engines, and many methods of customizing GenAI to more factually return meaningful responses require technical access and skills beyond the ken of the average manager. Gems may be a great way to help the average person.

It should be noted - a relatively new addition to Google's NotebookLM, a different interface, has added a function called "Audio Overview", which can automatically create a very convincing podcast about the custom content. Users will have to figure out how to best exploit Gemini with Gems and NotebookLM to get the most from Gemini's solutions.