Navigating the Challenges of ChatGPT/ft:gpt-3.5-turbo-1106: Performance, Functionality, and Alternatives

The ChatGPT/ft:gpt-3.5-turbo-1106, a model from OpenAI, has garnered significant attention, albeit for the wrong reasons. This blog post delves into the key issues associated with this model, its intended features, and viable alternatives for users seeking better performance and cost-effectiveness.

Performance Issues

Users have widely reported that the gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 model delivers a subpar experience compared to its predecessors. Descriptions of the model's performance include terms like "horrific," indicating a notable decline in response quality. Many users receive irrelevant or unhelpful responses, often encountering the frustrating "I'm sorry, I can't do that" message.

Function Calling Problems

Another significant issue is the model's handling of function calls. Despite having the full function definition, gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 struggles to execute function calls reliably, leading to inconsistent and incorrect outputs. This flaw undermines the model's utility in applications requiring precise function execution.

Deprecation and Model Pointers

Initially, there were plans for gpt-3.5-turbo to point to gpt-3.5-turbo-1106. However, due to the performance issues, this plan was shelved. Currently, gpt-3.5-turbo continues to point to the more reliable gpt-3.5-turbo-0613.

Recommendations

Given the myriad issues with gpt-3.5-turbo-1106, many users have reverted to gpt-3.5-turbo-0613. However, with the anticipated deprecation of gpt-3.5-turbo-0613, OpenAI recommends transitioning to gpt-4o-mini as of July 2024. This model promises better capabilities and cost-effectiveness, making it a preferable alternative.

Model Features

Despite its shortcomings, gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 was designed to enhance instruction following, offer JSON mode, ensure reproducible outputs, and support parallel function calling. Unfortunately, the model's overall poor performance has overshadowed these features, resulting in widespread user dissatisfaction.

Conclusion

While the ChatGPT/ft:gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 model aimed to bring significant improvements, its performance issues have led many to seek alternatives. Users are advised to consider gpt-4o-mini for better performance and value. Staying informed about the latest developments and recommendations from OpenAI will ensure optimal use of AI models in your applications.