As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented rate, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in our daily lives is becoming increasingly prominent. From self-driving cars to virtual assistants, AI is revolutionizing the way we live and work. As we look towards a future that is centered around AI, it is important for founders to carefully consider their approach to incorporating this technology into their businesses.
In a recent interview with TechCrunch, Gusto co-founder and head of technology, Edward Kim, shared his thoughts on the best way for companies to embrace AI. Kim believes that cutting existing teams and solely hiring AI engineers is “the wrong way to go.” Instead, he argues that non-technical team members can actually bring a deeper understanding and perspective to the table.
Kim’s stance on this issue is refreshing and goes against the common belief that AI is a technology that only highly trained engineers can fully comprehend and utilize. He believes that non-technical team members, such as marketers, salespeople, and customer service representatives, can offer valuable insights and contribute to the success of AI implementation.
One of the main reasons why non-technical team members can bring a unique perspective to AI is because they have a deep understanding of the company’s customers and their needs. They are the ones who interact with customers on a daily basis and have a firsthand understanding of their pain points and preferences. This knowledge is crucial when it comes to developing AI solutions that truly cater to the needs of the target audience.
Moreover, non-technical team members can also provide a different perspective on the potential impact of AI on the company’s operations and culture. They can identify potential challenges and offer creative solutions that may not have been considered by the technical team. This diversity of thought and collaboration between technical and non-technical team members can lead to more well-rounded and effective AI strategies.
In addition to bringing a unique perspective, non-technical team members can also play a crucial role in the implementation and adoption of AI within the company. As Kim points out, “AI is not just about building the technology, it’s about how you integrate it into your business.” Non-technical team members can help bridge the gap between the technical aspects of AI and its practical application in the company’s day-to-day operations. This can lead to a smoother and more successful integration of AI into the company’s processes.
Furthermore, Kim believes that companies should focus on upskilling their existing team members rather than solely relying on hiring specialized AI engineers. This not only allows companies to utilize the knowledge and skills of their current employees, but it also creates a culture of continuous learning and growth within the organization. By investing in the development of their team members, companies can build a strong foundation for the successful implementation and utilization of AI.
However, this does not mean that companies should completely disregard the importance of hiring AI engineers. Kim acknowledges that having a team of specialized AI engineers is crucial for developing and maintaining AI technology. However, he emphasizes the importance of having a diverse team with a mix of technical and non-technical skills.
In conclusion, as companies plan for an AI-centric future, it is important for them to consider the valuable contributions that non-technical team members can bring to the table. By embracing a diverse team and investing in the upskilling of existing employees, companies can create a strong foundation for the successful integration of AI into their operations. As Edward Kim rightly puts it, “AI is not just a technology, it’s a team sport.” Let’s work together to build a future where AI and human collaboration lead to endless possibilities.
