A powerful lever for growth, artificial intelligence requires a profound transformation of organizations, explain Solène Julier and Felix Humbaire, associates at Eurogroup Consulting.
How is the corporate approach to AI evolving?
Felix Humbaire: A few years ago, companies were wondering how AI could help them predict their inventories, hire the right number of temps or automate the response to their e-mails. Since 2022 and the generative AI boom, some believe that AI will generate huge productivity gains and replace certain jobs almost magically. It's an illusion largely perpetuated by the media and certain software and service providers.
Solène Julier : Large and medium-sized companies are all testing ChatGPT or Copilot. The challenge is to go from PoC (Proof of Concept) scale, because the promises of AI are not just a matter of snapping your fingers. The road ahead is often longer than expected, while the desire to create value and reduce costs is paramount.
What kind of work is involved?
S.J.: Eurogroup Consulting and its partner La Javaness lead their customers to adopt a holistic approach to AI, reflecting on its transformative power. We start by analyzing how AI impacts the value chain and the business. We identify use cases, business issues where AI would be of interest. Then we look at what needs to evolve in terms of data governance, skills, organization and technological infrastructures, right through to the development of solutions.
F.H.: Another key point is employee acculturation and training. Everyone needs to understand the systemic transformation that AI implies. This is why we have created the Generative Experience training program. Getting to grips with AI concepts, understanding what it can do and under what conditions, helps to demystify AI and get employees on board.
What role does data play in this process?
S.J.: Data is the sinews of war and tomorrow's capital. Hence the need for data governance shared between the various business lines.
F.H.: Often, data is of poor quality, integrated according to different reference systems... Making it accessible and coherent requires the intervention of both technical and business departments, as these are strategic choices.
Could this work discourage some companies?
S.J.: In an uncertain economic climate, it's better to invest in a structured approach than in scattered initiatives that won't deliver a real return on investment.
F.H.: But companies that fail to embark on this transformation will tomorrow become the suppliers of those who know how to manage data. This raises the question of their strategic autonomy.
Interview published in HEC Stories on 12/19/2024
