Reflections on GenAI, digital adoption, and the future of work
By Ofir Bloch, VP Corporate Marketing @ WalkMe
I recently had the privilege of hosting a WalkMe Realize session with Dr. Bob Sutor, VP and Practice Lead, Emerging Technologies at the Futurum Group. Our discussion on “GenAI, Digital Adoption, and the Future of Work” was both enlightening and thought-provoking.
Our chat about generative AI and its impact on work didn't disappoint. Here's what stuck with me:
1. GenAI: game-changer, not game-over
Bob put it plainly: GenAI is big, but it's not the whole AI story. It's definitely reshaping how we work, but it's not replacing us. This resonated with me; at WalkMe, we've always seen tech as something that empowers people, not replaces them.
2. The human touch
Bob and I talked about how AI adoption goes beyond the technology aspect and how a major component of any successful adoption story is the human factor. Bob emphasized that unlike previous tech waves, AI requires us to really think about its impact on our workforce. It's not just about the tools and new software we implement, but fundamentally changing how we work.
3. Bring your own AI
"Shadow AI", or as I prefer calling it, “Business Led AI”, is giving IT departments nightmares. And don't get me started on data security concerns. But Bob wasn't all doom and gloom. He sees GenAI as a potential game-changer for decision-making and efficiency. It's like having an extremely smart senior co-worker at your fingertips. We discussed the fact that resisting change or trying to halt progress often doesn’t work and then explored some of the alternative approaches companies should take.
4. Concierge-as-a-service
We got pretty excited discussing the future of AI assistants. Bob's vision of AI tools working together seamlessly aligns perfectly with what we're doing with WalkMe(X). Imagine an AI that doesn't just answer questions, but guides you to the right tool for the job almost like a digital concierge that knows the best next action and the most capable LLM to deal with any challenge or workflow.
5. Baby steps to big changes
For those feeling overwhelmed by GenAI, Bob's advice was refreshingly simple: start small, communicate clearly, and get your leadership on board. It's about evolution, not revolution.
Looking Ahead
As we wrapped up, three key themes emerged:
1. Quality data is king - the data you put in determines what you get out.
2. Context is crucial - AI needs to understand the bigger picture.
3. People first - always keep the human element in focus.
As Dr. Sutor so eloquently put it, we’re entering one of the most exciting times in tech history. At WalkMe, we’re committed to leading this transformation, ensuring that as AI reshapes the workplace, we’re focusing on augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them.
The future of work is here, and it’s powered by AI. But it’s our human touch that will guide its successful implementation. I’m excited to continue this journey with WalkMe, helping organizations navigate this transformative era in technology.