Hao Dinh, Vice President Of Technology, Enpro
In the era of artificial intelligence (AI), many organizations invest heavily in cutting-edge technology with the expectation of immediate returns. However, the reality is that technology alone is not enough to ensure AI’s success. Research from leading consulting firms such as McKinsey and Boston Consulting Group (BCG) highlights a critical yet often overlooked factor in AI initiatives — the human side of technology.
The Human Factor in AI Success
McKinsey’s recent studies on digital transformation reveal a startling statistic— 70 percent of transformation initiatives fail to meet their objectives. A primary reason for this failure is a lack of attention to people and processes. While companies focus on acquiring advanced AI tools, they often neglect to train the workforce on how to use and benefit from these technologies.
Similarly, BCG’s findings highlight that organizations underinvest in building a culture that embraces AI. Resistance from employees— stemming from fear, uncertainty, or a lack of understanding—creates barriers to adoption. Without addressing these challenges, even the most advanced AI solutions struggle to scale effectively or deliver measurable returns on investment (ROI)
Upskilling: A Critical Investment
One of the biggest challenges AI presents is its impact on job roles. If employees affected by AI are not trained to work alongside these technologies, organizations face resistance, decreased morale and inefficient usage. Upskilling ensures that employees understand AI and feel confident in leveraging it to improve their work.
“AI’s Potential To Transform Industries Is Immense, But Its Success Depends On A Skilled And Empowered Workforce”
Here are three compelling reasons why upskilling is essential for unlocking AI’s full potential:
1. Scalability and ROI: AI adoption is not just about deploying algorithms; it’s about integrating them into workflows. Without trained personnel who know how to use AI tools effectively, scaling AI across the organization becomes a near-impossible task. Employees who are equipped with the right skills can amplify AI’s impact, driving higher ROI.
2. Employee Buy-In: AI is often perceived as a threat to jobs, leading to fear and resistance. Upskilling helps demystify AI by showing employees how it augments their roles rather than replacing them. When workers see AI as a tool that enhances their productivity and reduces mundane tasks, they become advocates for its adoption.
3. Future-Proofing the Workforce: AI is rapidly evolving, and staying relevant requires continuous learning. Investing in upskilling programs prepares employees to adapt to new technologies, ensuring that organizations remain competitive in the long run.
Building A Culture Of AI Augmentation
For AI to thrive, leaders must cultivate a culture that prioritizes human-AI collaboration. This starts with transparent communication about AI’s purpose and benefits. Rather than framing AI as a replacement for human effort, organizations should emphasize its role as a productivity enhancer.
Practical steps include:
• Customized Training Programs: Tailor upskilling initiatives to specific job roles, ensuring relevance and immediate applicability.
• Leadership Advocacy: Encourage leaders to champion AI adoption and model its use in decision-making.
• Ongoing Support: Provide resources and continuous learning opportunities to keep employees updated on AI advancements.
Innovative Approaches to Upskilling: Grow by Design
An excellent example of an innovative upskilling approach is offered by Grow by Design. Their methodology allows people to learn about AI in ways that best suit them—whether through reading, watching videos, or directly engaging with AI tools. This flexibility ensures that learning is both accessible and personalized, catering to different learning preferences and paces. By empowering individuals to choose how they learn, Grow by Design makes AI education more engaging.
Conclusion
AI’s potential to transform industries is immense, but its success depends on a skilled and empowered workforce. As McKinsey and BCG’s research underscores, the human side of AI—upskilling, engagement and cultural alignment—is the true key to success. By investing in their people, organizations can unlock AI’s full potential, ensuring not only technological progress but also sustainable growth and innovation.