Human experts have always been central to AI development, a principle we’ve embraced at Scale since our founding. In 2023, the explosive growth of Generative AI sparked an incredible demand for high-quality data to power large language models, requiring expertise across all domains of human knowledge. This spurred the creation of Outlier, a part of the Scale family of products and services dedicated to advancing GenAI through specialized human expertise

On Outlier, expert contributors provide the specialized knowledge needed to create and curate the high-quality data essential for producing cutting-edge AI - driving advancements for leading model builders and tech companies. In addition to driving AI advancement, Outlier also provides contributors a flexible, low-commitment option for earning additional income. In the past year alone, tens of thousands of contributors from around the world have earned hundreds of millions of dollars on Outlier. We frequently hear from contributors that this flexible income helps them save for the things they want in life, like a new mountain bike, a wedding ring or even a new home.

With this rapid growth, Outlier has arrived at an exciting moment. Starting today, I am proud to announce my new role as the first General Manager of Outlier.

As our former Head of Generative AI Operations, there is no one better suited than Xiaote to lead Outlier into its next chapter. Over the past year, we’ve been incredibly fortunate to witness tremendous growth for Outlier – not only from customers seeking high-quality data but also from experts worldwide eager to contribute to AI’s rapid advancements. Xiaote’s leadership will be key to shaping the future of this platform and continuing to push the boundaries of what’s possible in AI.

– Alexandr Wang, CEO and Cofounder

Throughout my career, from working in consumer finance to restaurant technology to security systems, I’ve been driven by the idea of building solutions that make everyday life better. Each industry taught me something new, but the thread has always been impact.

In this new position, and to ensure that Outlier remains a valuable platform for contributors, I see a massive opportunity to maximize impact. This means building for the next stage of growth, actively addressing feedback, and always keeping an eye on the future. To that end, we’ve identified three distinct pillars of focus that will benefit both our customers and contributors:

Best-In-Class Platform. To drive rapid AI advancements, we are focused on ensuring a best-in-class contributor experience. This includes smooth project onboarding with a simplified process and clear communication around project requirements. We’re also working to enhance the experience with a more intuitive interface, improved project visibility, and streamlined in-product communication to ensure a seamless, user-friendly workflow.
Reliability and Transparency. We’re focused on improving support and pay transparency for contributors. This includes faster resolution of issues, like account management questions, and enhanced pay transparency through a detailed earnings tab and visible pay rates during tasks. To reduce payment delays, we’ve added helpful tooltips, and our revamped support system now resolves 90% of pay-related inquiries within three days, ensuring a smoother, more reliable experience.
More Opportunity and Flexibility. As AI evolves, it opens up new opportunities for flexible work – opportunities that didn’t exist just a few years ago. That includes opportunities for people with specialized skills to train AI models, without displacing existing jobs. To support this, we’re focused on increasing project availability and giving contributors more options, including backup projects and offering greater choice between tasks. We’re also testing Expert Match, a feature that will enable our customers to search, screen, and invite contributors to their projects, while also providing contributors more work opportunities and the flexibility to accept or decline projects.

Advancing AI through high-quality data is one of the most important human endeavors of our time, requiring expert input that reflects the full depth of human intelligence. We are committed to driving this mission forward, ensuring that both AI and its development process benefit humanity. This is just the beginning, and I’m excited to lead Outlier into the future alongside the contributors who make it possible.