Let's picture a scenario for a moment: you've just received two emails promoting the same product. One contains a striking, vivid image that seems to seamlessly blend with the brand's identity, while the other displays an abstract visual that feels slightly... off. Now, what if I told you one was crafted by a seasoned designer and the other was generated by cutting-edge AI? Intriguing, right? This isn't just a hypothetical situation. We, at Stripo, decided to run this exact test to unveil the truths behind AI image generation and human-generated imagery within the realm of email marketing.
Setting the stage
Our objectives were crystal clear from the get-go:
Discernibility: Would you, the recipient, be able to pinpoint which image was the work of AI and which bore the human touch?
Preference/performance: When it comes down to it, which imagery draws you in more and shows higher performance? The precision of AI or the nuanced touch of a human artist?
Сost-effectiveness: Between time, resources, and the final output, which method stands tall as the most efficient?
Ever felt the thrill of a revelation? Well, brace yourself!
Showcasing our A/B test imagery
We're visual creatures, aren't we? A picture speaks a thousand words, and in our A/B test, we had two tales unfolding side by side — one penned (or shall we say, painted?) by human hands, and the other sculpted by the algorithms of AI. On the left side will be images made by the designer and on the right side will be generated by the AI.
Email about interactive modules:
Results:
- Hum: 29.6% CTOR
- AI: 13% CTOR
Email about tools:
Results:
- Hum: 17.4% CTOR
- AI: 8.9% CTOR
Email crash test with Vimeo:
Results:
- Hum: 28.6% CTOR
- AI: 23.9% CTOR
Email marketing performance:
Results:
- Hum: 16.7% CTOR
- AI: 16.3% CTOR
Pulling back the curtain
The results? Quite revealing, if we do say so ourselves:
For most of our email blocks adorned with AI-generated images, the outcomes were, well, a tad underwhelming. The difference in engagement was stark, sometimes plummeting by up to 10%.
- AI: 16.3% CTOR Hum: 16.7% CTOR
- AI: 23.9% CTOR Hum: 28.6% CTOR
- AI: 8.9% CTOR Hum 17.4% CTOR
- AI: 13% CTOR Hum: 29.6% CTOR
Why such a stark difference? Here's the catch: AI, while brilliant, tends to lean towards abstract visuals. Often, these images miss out on the intricate details that align with a specific topic or brand. It’s akin to using a generic stock image when a tailored photograph is needed. The designer, on the other hand, begins with context, weaving visuals inspired by content and guided by the brand book. Unfortunately, our current AI tools haven’t mastered understanding brand books or content nuances to the same degree.
What about speed, you ask? Interestingly, AI churning out images from scratch took almost the same time a human designer did. Yes, feeding AI with pre-made templates did expedite the process, but there was a catch. Most of these AI-generated visuals required tweaks — adjusting shapes, removing backgrounds, and the like.
In reflection: AI vs. Human-generated imagery
End of the day, while AI is a technological marvel, there's an undeniable charm in the human touch. Not only do results from AI currently leave room for improvement, but there's also a certain ease and fluidity in collaborating with a live person. Ever tried explaining a nuanced emotion or a vague idea? It's somewhat like describing your favorite color to a computer; it is easier said than done. Real-time feedback, the ability to pivot on the fly, and instant communication make human collaboration invaluable.
To put it metaphorically, if email marketing were a grand orchestra, AI might be the shiny new instrument with boundless potential. But for now, it seems the seasoned violin — our trusty designer — still plays the lead.
Wrapping up
In conclusion, while the world of AI continues to evolve and show promise, there's still an irreplaceable warmth, understanding, and finesse that human designers bring to the table, especially in the intricate dance of email marketing. So, the next time you spot an email image that truly resonates, take a moment to appreciate the art and science behind it. Who knows, it might just be the work of a talented human hand.
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