To anyone outside the technology field, the idea of artificial intelligence likely worries them about their jobs. After all, nothing's changed enterprise operations quite as much in recent years, and there's confusion and anxiety about how technology is reshaping how we work.
Adequately preparing organizations for AI requires finding ways to implement new tools so they make things better, not worse. Companies that believe that a fancy new AI tool will solve all of their problems are on the road to failure because they're overlooking the most important asset they already have: their people. Getting the most from machine learning tools rests on AI adoption strategies that address the needs of the people who will use them.
People Are the Key to Success
Getting your company into a position to embrace AI fully starts with addressing the human element at all levels, starting with leadership. Suppose managers and executives can't effectively articulate how the company plans to use AI and establish achievable goals. In that case, chaos, misuse, and poor performance can be created.
Leadership's willingness to acknowledge their skills and knowledge gaps is a big part of setting the stage and supporting a culture of learning and innovation. Embrace the opportunity to create stronger teams by learning alongside your employees and listening to their ideas and perspectives. No one can explain the capabilities and limitations of the technology better than the people using it, and their input can help maximize your investment.
Soft skills integration is also critical to preparing organizations for AI. Remember, AI assists humans; it doesn't replace them. Interpersonal communication, adaptability, time management, problem-solving, and decision-making skills are still critical to any business's success. If your team can't collaborate or communicate with each other, your AI investment won't pay off.
Focus on Building Skills for Now and the Future
The current reskilling revolution requires developing your existing team so they have the skills to leverage new technology. Preparing organizations for AI requires developing viewing skills for both builders and users. Although most of your workforce will be users and need AI literacy and fluency (the ability to use and talk about AI), the team that builds your AI tools must be top-notch.
One effective approach to ensuring your AI tools meet your needs is to create a Center of Excellence for AI. This means tapping into your current pool of talent and giving them the resources and support they need, as well as looking at previously untapped sources. Look for high performers within your organization who can take on new challenges and give them the tools they need to develop the necessary skills.
Supporting the creation of an AI-ready workforce is also instrumental in preparing organizations for AI adoption. Look for opportunities to establish academic partnerships and mentorship programs and join industry groups that support skills development.
Make the Rules Clear
A well-designed AI policy framework eliminates ambiguity, supports total transparency, and fosters greater productivity and trust. Clear policies also uphold ethical AI practices regarding data privacy, accuracy, bias, and use cases, reducing risk. Implement some today.
