In the midst of all this talk about AI and the constant Media doom and gloom about it taking our jobs, a crucial question that is often overlooked is “Why AI?”. We seem to find ourselves frequently fixated on the myriad of applications for artificial intelligence, from automating tasks to analysing data. However, before diving into the ‘WHAT’ and artificial intelligence's specific uses, shouldn’t we first consider the fundamental question: WHY?
Why should we use AI at all?
Simon Sinek, renowned for his influential concept of “Start with Why,” highlights the importance of understanding the underlying purpose behind our actions. As he famously asserts, “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” This principle applies not only to marketing and leadership but also to how we approach the integration of AI into our lives and businesses.
“Before exploring how AI can be employed, it's essential we ask: Why should we adopt this technology at all? What is our ‘why'?”
Challenging the core motivations behind our AI initiatives ensures we use AI in ways that truly align with our broader company goals and values. It also gives us a chance to align as a group on what it means to us collectively.
For example, personally I see the opportunity of AI to attract and retain great talent and teams, the chance to make workplaces more human, connected and enjoyable for employees. Empowering employees with the right AI technologies can significantly enhance their work experience.
Think of an accountant who suddenly had access to a calculator or computer. AI can handle repetitive, mundane tasks with amazing efficiency—tasks that often consume an insane amount of human time and energy.
By automating these routine processes with AI, we free up valuable time for employees to focus on what they excel at: creativity, strategic thinking, and interpersonal collaboration.
Imagine a future where AI tools seamlessly handle data entry and generate reports for multiple audiences in minutes (not days or weeks). Employees would be empowered to dedicate more time to activities that are uniquely human. They could focus on collaborating with colleagues, exchanging stories and insights, and cultivating deeper relationships with clients.
Working environments could be more vibrant and collaborative—by crikey they could almost be fun! The elimination of many of these mundane tasks would allow employees to engage in creative problem-solving and strategic planning, fostering a more dynamic and fulfilling working environment. By spending less time on repetitive work and more on meaningful interactions, employees contribute to a richer, more connected organisational culture.
Goodbye Information Silos. Hello to your own company ChatGPT
We’ve all encountered that one staff member who hoards information, keeping valuable knowledge close to their chest and creating frustrating siloes within the organisation.
Imagine a future where AI tools dismantle these barriers and democratise knowledge across the entire workplace. One of the most exciting transformations AI brings is in the onboarding process for new employees. Traditionally, onboarding can be a time-consuming task for managers, involving repetitive training sessions. AI can streamline this process by providing new hires with automated, interactive training modules that cover essential information and processes.
This not only reduces the burden on managers but also ensures that all new employees receive consistent and comprehensive training. AI-driven onboarding systems can guide new employees through company policies, job-specific tasks, and organisational culture at their own pace, making the integration smoother and more efficient. Additionally, AI can continuously update training materials and policies based on the latest company developments and feedback, ensuring that new hires have access to the most current information.
To summarise
By leveraging AI in this way, organisations can enhance communication and collaboration, reduce the time and effort required for training, and create a more inclusive and engaging work environment.
Ultimately, AI becomes more than just a technological advancement; it becomes a catalyst for a more connected, efficient, and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive and feel valued.
The ultimate aim is to use AI as a tool to amplify our capabilities rather than replace them. Thoughtfully integrating AI can lead to a more efficient, human-centric workplaces where employees are encouraged to thrive, innovate, and fully engage in their roles.
AI is more than a technological advancement; it's a catalyst for creating more meaningful and interconnected workplaces. Shared knowledge ensures that all employees have access to the information they need to succeed and contribute to the organisation’s success.
About the author
Fiona’s role is to bridge the gap between emerging technology such as AI and its practical impact on your people and business. Translating complex AI concepts into actionable insights to empower your workforce, Fiona helps businesses understand and leverage AI technology to drive real value. With over a decade of experience in global roles from top Professional Services firms such as KPMG, she shares insights on the future of work via keynote presentations, client workshops and 1:1 coaching sessions.
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