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How Does OpenAI Operate Without Emails? The Secret Revealed!

OpenAI, the AI research giant behind ChatGPT, operates unlike traditional companies—there are no emails, only Slack. A former employee, Calvin French-Owen, recently exposed the intense work culture, extreme secrecy, and obsession with online “vibes.” Here’s what really goes on behind the scenes.

What is Slack?
Slack is a messaging platform designed for workplace communication, replacing emails with instant messaging, file sharing, and project collaboration. Many tech companies, including OpenAI, rely on Slack for faster decision-making and real-time updates.
At OpenAI, Slack isn’t just a tool—it’s the primary mode of communication. Employees rarely use emails, with some receiving fewer than 10 emails during their entire tenure. This approach speeds up workflows but also contributes to an always-on, high-pressure environment.

Inside OpenAI’s Work Culture
No Emails, Only Slack – OpenAI avoids traditional emails to keep communication fast and transparent (within teams).
High-Pressure Environment – Employees often work 12-hour days, with tight deadlines leading to burnout.
Extreme Secrecy – Teams operate in silos, with little knowledge of what others are working on.
Obsession with “Vibes” – OpenAI monitors social media perceptions closely, despite being a tech-driven company.
Massive GPU Costs – The biggest expense? Computing power, far outweighing other operational costs.

Sample Questions & Answers (For Competitive Exams)
Q1: What communication tool does OpenAI primarily use instead of email?
A: Slack.
Q2: Why does OpenAI avoid using emails?
A: To maintain faster, real-time communication and reduce bureaucratic delays.
Q3: What was one of the biggest challenges faced by OpenAI employees, according to Calvin French-Owen?
A: Intense work pressure and long hours leading to burnout.
Q4: How does OpenAI maintain secrecy about its projects?
A: Teams work in isolation, with minimal internal sharing of project details.
Q5: What is OpenAI’s biggest operational expense?
A: GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) costs for AI model training.

Why is This Important for Exams?
Understanding OpenAI’s work culture and communication methods is relevant for:
UPSC, PSC, SSC – Questions on modern workplace trends, AI, and corporate culture.
NID, NIFT, KAS – Discussions on tech-driven work environments and organizational behavior.
General Awareness – Current affairs related to AI companies and their operational strategies.
For aspirants, knowing how top tech firms operate helps in interviews and essay-based exams where innovation and workplace dynamics are key topics.