In our livestream for Monitor, “Embracing AI as a Catalyst for Unlocking Your Potential,” we dove deeper into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how equipment finance businesses, whether just starting or already on the path, can navigate this complex landscape. With insights from industry experts Tina Cartwright, SVP, Transformation Strategic Executive at US Bank, and Camtu Vo, Manager of Product Development for DLL, and guided by Deborah Reuben, the CEO and Founder of TomorrowZone®, we explored practical steps and best practices that can help companies embrace AI and drive adoption successfully.
The Foundation of AI Journey is Educating Yourself
Tina emphasized the importance of education as the starting point for anyone interested in AI. Whether you’re a beginner or have some knowledge, educating yourself about AI’s basics is crucial. She recommended resources like Harvard studies, which are tailored for business understanding. These resources provide a solid foundation for understanding how AI can add value to your business and initiate meaningful conversations. Another valuable resource mentioned by Tina is AI Bullseye Tactics for Non-Technical Business Leaders by Thomas Gilbert. This resource guides you through the steps of incorporating AI into your daily operations, regardless of your industry. It’s not just about the technology; it’s about understanding how AI can improve the human and personal aspects of your business.
Collaboration and Team Engagement
Both Tina and Camtu highlighted the significance of involving your team and organization in the AI journey. Education should not be limited to just one person: it’s about bringing your entire team along with you. Collaborating with your colleagues creates momentum and leads to more experimentation. As more people gravitate toward AI ideas, you can identify where to start investing and experimenting further.
Start Individually, Expand Gradually
Camtu suggested starting the AI journey individually by assessing your current state and defining your future goals. Once you’ve set personal goals, extend this approach to your team and gradually to the entire organization. Make the learning process fun, even turning it into a competition to encourage engagement. This incremental approach helps create a comfortable learning environment and makes AI conversations less intimidating.
A Collaborative Learning Journey
Deborah emphasized the importance of a collaborative learning journey. Understanding your current state and where you want to go as a team allows you to create a roadmap for AI adoption. Collaboration turns ideas into actions and bridges the gap between vision and execution, which is crucial in adding value through AI.
Accessible Learning Resources
To make AI education accessible, Deborah shared a valuable resource called code.org. This platform provides free, plain-English training on AI concepts, including neural networks, machine learning, and generative AI. These resources are designed to help business professionals understand AI fundamentals, making it easier to have meaningful discussions with your team.
Make Time for AI Learning
AI education doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Deborah highlighted that many resources are available for free and can be completed in less than 37 minutes. Code.org, with its user-friendly approach to explaining advanced technologies, empowers non-technical experts to grasp AI concepts without investing excessive time.
The journey into the world of AI can be both exciting and overwhelming. However, with the right approach to education, collaboration, and gradual expansion, businesses can successfully embrace AI and harness its transformative potential. Remember that you’re not alone on this learning journey, and resources are readily available to help you take the first steps towards AI adoption. As we navigate this dynamic landscape, let’s continue to learn together and explore innovative ways to leverage AI for the benefit of our businesses and the industry as a whole.
