Model Context Protocol (MCP)
The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is an emerging open standard that allows AI applications and agents to securely connect to external data sources and tools. It provides a universal "language" for LLMs to read data from databases, APIs, or websites without needing custom integrations for every application.
MCP: The USB-C of AI Connectivity
Before USB-C, every device needed its own proprietary cable. MCP aims to solve the same problem for AI data access. Currently, connecting your business data to AI assistants requires building custom APIs for ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and every other platform—expensive, slow, and unmaintainable. MCP creates a universal standard where you build one interface and all MCP-compatible AI tools can instantly read your data. For businesses, early MCP adoption means your content becomes easily "pluggable" into AI assistants where work actually happens (Slack, Notion, VSCode), ensuring visibility in the emerging AI-native workflow ecosystem.
Custom API Integrations vs. MCP Standard
Real-World Impact
Company wants AI assistant to read their docs
Builds custom ChatGPT plugin, custom Claude integration
6 weeks development, $30K cost, breaks often
Company implements MCP server for documentation
ChatGPT, Claude, and 15 other tools connect instantly
1 week implementation, universal compatibility