5 must reads for the weekend

We keep our ear to the ground for the interesting stats, insights and discussion points you need to feel in the know.?

1. Building blocks?

Agility is key, and nowhere is this truer than in infrastructure. This sector, the very backbone of our society, is at a crossroads, grappling with climate change, urban growth, and economic flux. To transition to net-zero by 2050, a massive $139 trillion investment is needed, and another $94 trillion to bridge current gaps. The hero of this narrative could well be AI, with its potential to revolutionize project delivery, slash costs, and enhance sustainability. Yet, despite its promise, AI's uptake in infrastructure has been more of a slow burn than a wildfire — with some firms investing a cautious 2%, others a gutsy 10%. To truly revolutionize the sector, we must ramp up AI integration. It's about breaking down silos and rethinking our approach to planning, building, and managing the lifelines of society. The future is now, and it's AI-driven.?

How AI can unlock new value in infrastructure ?

2. Better together??

Companies everywhere are realizing that solo efforts won't cut it — they need strong partnerships to thrive in this new era. AI continues to reshape business, and staying ahead is now essential for growth. Chief Information Officers (CIOs) face a trifecta of challenges: outdated infrastructures, untapped data, and a scarcity of AI-savvy talent. The ecosystem approach is the ace up the sleeve. It's not just about sharing costs; it's about multiplying value and sparking innovation. Take the automotive shift from selling cars to enabling mobility—it's ecosystem thinking at its finest. CIOs should invest in shared ecosystems to tackle IT challenges, clean up data, and bridge the talent gap more efficiently. This collaborative model is key to harnessing AI's full potential. In short, it's time to band together. Collaboration is the key to unlocking AI's potential and staying competitive. The future is collaborative, and the smartest players are those who leverage collective strength to lead the AI revolution.?

?Leading as a Future-Ready CIO in an AI-Driven World

3. Bagging trust?

Canadian consumers are after a seamless and secure shopping experience and brands who can provide good service paired with trustworthy tech will set themselves apart. EY's Future Consumer Now Index reveals that shoppers are willing to pay a premium for brands they trust. They want to feel acknowledged and safeguarded, whether they're shopping online or in-store, and they crave consistency from brands at every touchpoint. For Canadian retailers, the future is all about personalization and convenience that go beyond the usual shopping spree. Customers aren't just after a better shopping experience; they want to know their data is in good hands. Personalized experiences need to be clear-cut and transparent. When customers share their info, they expect it to be used responsibly and protected by strong security measures. It's about using data wisely and keeping privacy in the spotlight, ensuring that every business move is made with trust in mind.?

Retailers: Own the customer journey ?

4. AI is everywhere?

A whopping 84% of companies are set to embrace GenAI this year, according to a recent EY study. Mobility is ahead of the curve, yet regular AI use is still?low. GenAI is more than a tech trend; it requires a strategic, risk-aware approach. For the workforce, it offers relief from monotonous tasks, enhancing job satisfaction. Right now, nearly half of digital workers face challenges in locating information — a void GenAI can fill. By 2025, half of knowledge workers may use AI daily. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Introducing AI demands a thoughtful approach, addressing skills gaps and easing employee concerns. For Human Resources, it's about enhancing the employee experience and smartly integrating AI. The fusion of technology and human insight is crucial, positioning AI as an ally in the quest for efficiency and job satisfaction.?

Why reimagining work depends on HR embracing GenAI ??

5. The next web?

Over the summer, leaders from various industries got together to discuss AI’s transformative potential. They highlighted that AI is essential for businesses seeking to maintain a competitive edge in the evolving market. From making financial services more accessible and eco-friendly to speeding up drug development and making healthcare more equitable, AI's benefits are vast. Leaders from companies like Remote and Partex highlighted how AI is making their operations smoother and more efficient, allowing them to do more with less. Meanwhile, voices from Prosus Group and TechLeap pointed out the potential of AI to tackle big issues like climate change and the digital divide. The consensus? Embracing AI is essential for any company aiming for long-term success and a competitive edge. It's clear that AI is not just about robots and algorithms; it's about fundamentally changing how we work, live, and solve problems for the better.?

Five Key Insights from The Next Web. Exploring the Impact of AI ??

If you do one thing:?

Team up to level up.?

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