Unlocking AI's Potential: It's All About the People
 

The Challenge with AI in Modern Workplaces

In today's digital world, AI is everywhere. But despite its rapid spread across various industries, an astonishing 85% of AI projects don't bring in the returns they promise, as Gartner, Inc. points out. So, what's going wrong? It turns out the issue isn't with the AI itself, but how it's being used at work.

Why People Matter in AI Success

Think about a pilot learning to fly. They don't just jump into the cockpit and take off. They train extensively first. Similarly, for AI to work effectively, there needs to be a shift in how people think and operate. This is especially true in places like China, where AI got a head start. The businesses that do well with AI are those that focus on their people just as much as their technology.

For instance, a major pharmaceutical company struggled to get their sales team to use powerful AI tools. These tools sat unused until the company changed their approach.

Transforming AI Use Through Hands-On Learning

The breakthrough came when CYY Consulting stepped in with a new strategy. They launched "Work Better With AI," a workshop that emphasized learning by doing. This wasn't about sitting through a lecture on AI capabilities; it was about getting staff to use AI in their daily tasks right away. This practical approach played a crucial role in helping the team see the real value of AI.

Real-World Impact of AI

In the workshop, employees tackled actual work tasks with AI. This direct interaction showed them how AI could make jobs easier and more efficient. For example, one team member used AI to whip up a training video in just two minutes—a task that would normally take much longer.

Significant Shifts in AI Engagement

The hands-on workshop led to a dramatic increase in how much the team used AI. Initially, only a small percentage used AI regularly. After the workshop, more than half planned to make AI a part of their daily routine. They moved from just using AI to actively managing and improving AI outputs.

Sustained Success and Enhanced Productivity

Three weeks post-workshop, a follow-up survey showed that AI use had soared. Many were using AI multiple times a week, leading to more effective work and less time spent on mundane tasks. This change not only made their jobs easier but also boosted overall job satisfaction.

Conclusion: It's All About the People

This experience with the pharmaceutical company shows a key lesson: the success of AI doesn't just hinge on the technology but on the people using it. By nurturing a culture that values continual learning and hands-on experience, companies can ensure their AI investments pay off. In the end, it's the human element that transforms AI from just another tool into a powerful force for business innovation.