AI Tranformation webinar recap: Five Practical Tips for AI Transformation

On January 22, we at Brillian hosted a webinar on AI transformation, exploring how organizations can build long-lasting impact with AI. During the session, we shared five practical tips to help leaders ensure successful AI initiatives. In this blog post, we’ll recap those key takeaways.

Do we really know what we are doing with AI? Sensemaking is about defining shared goals and focus areas. In other words, it means aligning on what you are focusing on – and what is explicitly ruled out. Sensemaking is social by nature and happens through dialogue with the relevant people across your organization. Together, you can decide what is plausible and what should happen next. Asking the right questions and truly listening are essential for building engagement. 

Do we know what we are doing (and what we are not doing)? 

AI brings people from different parts of the organization around the same table. Business units, IT, Learning & HR, and R&D all need to work together. This collaboration is best supported through workshops, training sessions, and forums for sharing and learning. Remember: AI transformation is a team sport. Build togetherness and actively bring people together. 

How to bring (your) people together to learn and share? 

There is often a great deal of human hesitation when it comes to AI adoption. It is important to acknowledge that AI transformation must take place in a safe environment. Psychological safety is a basic human need, especially during times of major change. Our brains are wired to react protectively when we encounter something new. Often, what looks like resistance to AI is simply a natural reaction to the unknown. 

Are we answering concerns like "Is my contribution still valued"? 

It’s helpful to take an analytical look at your AI journey. Transformation happens on multiple levels, but it always starts with the individual. On the personal level, AI affects day-to-day work and the adoption of new tools. On the team level, responsibility lies with team leads, who facilitate sharing, support, and alignment. At the organizational level, transformation is led by leadership and focuses on setting direction and taking strategic ownership. 

Which level are we the strongest and weakest on? 
 

Avoid falling into the “just do AI” pitfall and focus instead on the why. AI should be part of a broader strategic framework, where it is taken into account as one transformative force. There should be a shared understanding of where the company is headed in terms of embedding intelligence into its operations and products. Without it, there is a real risk of scattered experimentation and getting stuck in pilot mode without tangible business value. A strong AI vision helps build trust, identify and prioritize opportunities, align AI efforts with business goals, and improve measurability. 

How are the ways we intend to leverage AI connected to our business goals? 

Recording available 

We hope you find these tips useful. A good next step might be to reflect on them: which of these areas requires the most attention in your organization right now? 

For those who were unable to attend, or who would like a refresher, you can watch the full webinar recording here.