AI Native SOP
Rube Goldberg’s “Self-Operating Napkin” is a cartoon of a delightful machine that springs into action to hand the inventor a napkin every time he lifts a spoon.
In an age of endless automation, how do we separate what’s genuinely useful from what’s just clever for clever’s sake?
With thousands of AI products on the market—each promising to “revolutionize” business operations—the real challenge is no longer access, but in discerning: which tools offer true leverage, and which are self-operating napkins?
Microsoft’s Work Trend Index Annual Report released in mid-2025 surveyed 31,000 employees across 31 countries and found :
82% of businesses say this is a pivotal year to rethink key parts of AI strategy and operations.
Only 24% have taken the first steps to deploy AI systems across their organization.
12% remain in pilot mode.
In this post, I’ve compiled a working database of AI-native products that I’ve personally used or that have been recommended by software CEOs, AI engineers, and investors—all of whom have deployed these tools with measurable success in their businesses.
My aim is to offer business owners and investors a clear starting point: a shortlist of high-ROI AI products available today, to make it easier to begin deploying AI thoughtfully and effectively across key business functions.
Included in this database:
AI-native products designed for core company functions
Open-source AI resources
Custom GPTs I use in daily operations at Aone Partners
Notes on user outcomes and the problems each tool is designed to solve