In a recent discussion, Mohamad Ali from IBM highlights the need for organizations to seamlessly integrate AI into daily workflows to truly benefit from its potential. He notes that 64% of CEOs believe that the success of generative AI relies more on user adoption than on the technology itself. IBM Consulting has embraced this challenge with its AI-powered platform, IBM Consulting Advantage. This platform has seen rapid growth, with over 85,000 users and significant productivity gains. Key strategies for successful AI adoption include embedding AI into existing processes, fostering a culture of innovation, building trust through training, and empowering employees to become creators. Looking ahead, leaders will need to combine AI technology with human collaboration to maximize their investments effectively.
By Mohamad Ali | Senior Vice President & Head of IBM Consulting
January 21, 2025
Unleashing the Power of AI in Business: Key Takeaways from IBM Consulting
One of the biggest hurdles companies face in achieving a return on investment (ROI) from artificial intelligence (AI) is ensuring user engagement. Success with generative AI relies heavily on how well employees adopt it rather than just on the technology itself. A staggering 64% of CEOs believe that people’s adoption is critical, according to the IBM Institute for Business Value.
At IBM, we’ve taken significant strides to address this challenge. Over the past year, we’ve launched IBM Consulting Advantage, an AI-powered platform designed specifically for our consultants. This platform serves as a workbench where AI agents and applications enhance daily tasks while engaging with clients.
In just one year, we have increased users to over 85,000 and developed more than 2,000 tools tailored to various industries, integrating technology from partners such as Adobe, AWS, Microsoft, Salesforce, and SAP. This has led to a productivity boost of up to 50% in consulting tasks.
So, how do we make AI tools "sticky" for our teams and clients? Here are four essential strategies we’ve discovered:
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Integrate AI into Daily Workflows
We’ve made AI an integral part of the consultant’s work process. By embedding capabilities into everyday tasks—for instance, streamlining cloud migration—employees can leverage AI without dealing with unnecessary complexities. We’ve also developed plugins for popular programming environments, making it easier for tech teams to utilize AI tools in familiar settings. -
Encourage a Growth Mindset
Innovation thrives in teams that embrace ongoing learning. We encourage our consultants to continuously explore new possibilities for AI applications. For example, we’re focused on developing smaller, curated foundation models that cater specifically to industry needs, such as regulatory compliance in finance. -
Build Trust Among Users
To effectively use AI, employees need proper training and support. It’s crucial for them to understand AI outputs, leading to greater confidence in the technology. We establish open channels for feedback, which help us adapt and improve the platform based on user experiences. - Empower Employees as Innovators
Many workers view generative AI as something imposed on them rather than a tool they can wield. Creating a culture that encourages contribution can shift this perception. We provide consultants with the tools to create and train AI assistants, allowing them to share their innovations, which can foster a sense of ownership.
Looking toward 2025, companies that can make AI tools an integral part of their operations while blending technology with human expertise will be best positioned for success. By prioritizing user adoption and engagement, organizations can truly unlock the full potential of their AI investments.
Tags: Artificial Intelligence, IBM Consulting, Business Transformation, User Engagement, Productivity, Technology Adoption
What does “sticky” AI mean for IBM Consulting?
“Sticky” AI means creating solutions that clients find helpful and want to use again and again. At IBM Consulting, we focus on making our AI tools easy to use and valuable for everyday work.
How is IBM Consulting making AI tools more user-friendly?
We design our AI tools with feedback from users. This way, we can understand what they need and adjust our tools accordingly. Keeping things simple helps users feel comfortable and confident.
Can businesses easily integrate IBM’s AI into their current systems?
Yes, businesses can integrate our AI solutions into their existing systems. We help clients with support and training to ensure a smooth transition. This makes using AI easier for everyone.
What are some benefits of using “sticky” AI in consulting?
Using “sticky” AI helps businesses save time, make better decisions, and improve their overall efficiency. It also encourages regular use of AI, leading to better results over time.
How can companies get started with IBM’s AI solutions?
Companies can reach out to IBM Consulting for a demo of our AI tools. We’ll discuss their needs and show them how our solutions can fit into their business strategies.