R We Ready?

Preparedness, and contingency planning are often assumed, part of who and what we are.? We often prepare in case it rains, just in case there? is an accident, the likely summer of bush fires, and even the probability of yet another pandemic.? It is unconscionable to do otherwise - especially if we know something is likely to happen.

Top of mind for many of the most successful executives I talk to most recently, is about our (people) interactions with thinking machines.? Perhaps not of the Terminator or Star Trek variety - ?as many say at least not yet.? Yet the trouble is many keep saying, "not yet".? Recognising that most of us would have not only accessed but used ChatGPT to ‘try it out’.? Recall however,only that it was only introduced to us less than a year ago (end 2022); and it is now not only globally pervasive, but has dominated almost all aspects of our lives.? Yes, already.? And more critically, is expected to control us if we are not prepared - much sooner than later.??

Are we ready?

Sharing a snippet of my thoughts this long, Cup Day weekend.? Now, we that have had a brief* opportunity to experience Artificial Intelligence (AI).? And I am not only talking about consumer AI tools like ChatGPT, Bard and Bing that can converse almost normally with us, but also our prevalent use of social media like Facebook, Twitter (X), Tik Tok and Instagram; grammar correction & spam protections in everyday email, Google Search and Digital Voice Assistants (like Siri, Google, Alexa), online banking (and fraud protection), Amazon, Netflix and FlyBuys recommendations, as well as all the ‘smart’ machines on our wrists & pockets & in the kitchen or dining area at home that we have grown to love and hate.??

The most successful executives I talk to agree.? Many say they remain sleepless because of the unprecedented speed at which AI is already changing competitive landscapes, but also mind boggling complexity (difficult to understand) of how these artificial brains are reasoning, solving, creating and emoting.

So how will we actively plan to live in light of this inevitability, and emerge better?

By way of analogy, accurate maps are essential when navigating unknown territory.? Then it is up to you to prepare for the journey, with sufficient resources such as fuel, food, appropriate contingency such as rest stops or additional drivers, and an understanding of who to call or what to do in an emergency.

The analogy as it relates to our journey with AI technology is unique to every individual, family, enterprise or industry as different as we are not alike.? This means there is a spectrum of causes and effects, and how we plan to live with this new change begins with this understanding.??

On one side are the effects on routine day-today interaction (how effectively we can do what we already do routinely), through to more profound & radical transformation of the way we live (creating new business models, work patterns and value).? And another dimension where it is personal as it affects oneself, family/home or business operations or social as it affects others, customers, governments and the national/international economy. ? Gartner, just last month formalised this somewhat, into what they refer to as the AI Opportunity Radar.? Yet others refer to this in different frames.? The conclusion, however, is common no matter where along this spectrum.? It highlights the need for businesses especially, to be clear about what needs to be done, when and how.? And the positioning against this map or backdrop of routine against profound, and personal against social is a helpful start as it allows for an understanding of our current position, and where we want to get to next.

Once this is agreed, then tactical next steps include how prepared the enterprise is for the AI journey, in order to get to our destination successfully.? This includes how information (data) is curated & used, what defences are appropriate, and finally how we govern in the face of disruption (in no particular order).? Beginning with governance, people (whether family’s or enterprises) need a consistent direction and work best when there is guidance.

Most enterprises are routinely curating, harvesting, and using (well kinda) data.? But so are competitors.? Some will say this is okay, but to the others who wish to position to win, to be different, and to lead this is not sufficient.? What is needed to assemble the optimum datasets, that deliver more, be ever more helpful and is able to support the delivery of higher revenue and improvised margins?? Others would say, to deliver improved healthcare at lower cost.? Yet others would say to anticipate the movement of armies, navies and the air force in defence of sovereignty.? And to be relied on by our citizenry.

Then there is the dark side.? For every helpful, profitable, supportive initiative; we can always rely on another individual who will device plans to steal, cheat, plunder with the same technology. If we are not ready for the benefits, at least, are we ready for the dark side?

Does everyone in our organisation understand how, when and what to do? To optimise the use of data?? And to manage malicious activity, when it occurs?? Is appropriate governance in place?? Do we know how to take advantage of what little data we have?? Gosh, there are lots of rather generic questions, and no 2 individuals or enterprises are the same.? For example some are more ambitious than others.? But whichever part of the spectrum (as above) you choose to position, those who are not ready are at risk of obsolescence, at the very best.??

Are we ready? Let's be (ready).