From Slop to Signal—An AI Creative QA Checklist

Speed is table stakes. Signal wins. Here’s how to turn AI output from generic filler into brand-safe creative that actually works.

The Problem

AI is a production engine—but without guardrails, it spits out what the internet already looks like: generic stock visuals, predictable phrasing, uncanny sameness. “AI slop” is real. And your audience can spot it.

The fix isn’t to ditch AI. It’s to layer a simple QA process over the speed it gives you.

78% of global companies now use AI in at least one business function

Source: McKinsey Global Survey on AI, 2025

The 10-Point Creative QA Checklist

1. Brand Code Check
Does the asset carry your logo, color, typography, or visual markers clearly?

2. Prompt Lineage
Capture the prompt used so the asset can be recreated or improved—not magic, but method.

3. Claims & Sources
If copy makes a claim, can you back it up? Don’t let hallucinations slip through.

4. Originality Test
Run a quick reverse image search or overlap scan. If it looks like stock, so will your campaign.

5. Hallucination Sweep
Scan visuals for glitches (extra fingers, warped text) and copy for invented facts.

6. Distinctiveness Test
Could a competitor slap their logo on this? If yes, it’s too bland.

7. Readability Check
Does it speak in plain, direct English? No jargon soup.

8. Accessibility Audit
Check contrast ratios, font sizes, and alt text. If it fails WCAG basics, it fails your brand.

9. LinkedIn Fit
Hook in the first line. Correct character counts. Mobile preview tested.

10. Human Sense-Check
Final stop: does it feel right? Would you post it from your own profile?

Why This Matters

AI has collapsed production timelines. But B2B marketers don’t get points for volume—they get points for impact. This checklist helps you turn the faucet of AI output into signal your audience can trust.

The Firehill POV

We’ve built and battle-tested this QA process for our own work and clients. It saves time, reduces risk, and protects brand trust.