In our latest episode of The AI Grapple, we sat down with Fiona Wilhelm to discuss the importance of a human-centered approach to AI. Fiona, with her diverse background in design, digital advertising, and consulting, brought a unique perspective to the conversation, emphasising the need to prioritise people over technology. Her insights truly underscored the importance of prioritising people over technology and creating a culture that embraces experimentation and continuous learning. As AI evolves, Fiona believes that organisations empowering their employees, addressing their concerns, and using AI to enhance human potential will be the ones to thrive.
Fiona shared insights from her work leading AI initiatives at KPMG, highlighting the firm's partnership with Microsoft to develop "KymChat," an internal tool designed to improve employee productivity and collaboration. This example illustrated the importance of creating a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable exploring and adopting new technologies.
The conversation touched upon the common anxieties surrounding AI. Fiona drew a parallel to the discovery of fire, emphasising that while transformative, AI's potential depends on our approach. She believes that fostering open dialogue and providing employees with the resources to understand and interact with AI can significantly reduce apprehension and encourage continuous learning.
Fiona envisions AI leading to positive changes in the workplace, such as flatter organisational structures and more empowered employees. She advocates for a "human-in-the-loop" approach, ensuring that human input remains integral to AI development and application. This collaborative approach is crucial for keeping AI tools relevant and beneficial in real-world scenarios.
Implementing AI effectively does come with its challenges. Fiona acknowledged that resistance to change is a common hurdle and suggests tackling it with a phased approach. Starting with smaller projects that demonstrate tangible benefits can pave the way for wider adoption.
One of the most compelling takeaways from our conversation was Fiona's vision of AI freeing employees from tedious tasks, allowing them to focus on more fulfilling and strategic work. She shared an example of how KPMG utilises AI to streamline procurement, leading to better decision-making and a greater emphasis on high-value activities.
Fiona’s insights highlighted the importance of implementing AI thoughtfully and inclusively. By prioritising human-centered design, fostering a culture of experimentation, and maintaining transparency, businesses can leverage AI to create more productive and fulfilling workplaces.
To hear the full conversation with Fiona and gain practical advice on applying AI in your own business, listen to the latest episode of The AI Grapple. And be sure to subscribe so you don't miss future episodes exploring the ever-evolving world of AI.
Links:
Website: https://www.fionawilhelm.com/