The questions you should be asking about AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant promise. It’s woven into the fabric of daily business, quietly transforming how we work, create, and connect. But as AI becomes more pervasive, the conversation shifts from “what can it do?” to “how do we use it well to further the interests of our organisations?”
Evinact recently hosted a group of industry leaders for a candid roundtable lunch to identify the questions you should be asking about AI. We heard unique perspectives on the real-world impact AI is having on sectors like recruitment, real estate, law, NFP and more. The Evinact team revealed their own insights on how to innovate with AI safely and ethically, without being left behind.
One thing was universally agreed:
“CEOs and other C-suite executives have critical roles to play in shaping the approach to AI”
Invisible AI, Visible Impact
AI is often embedded without fanfare in tools and platforms that we already use. We learned that many executives and teams aren’t fully aware of where AI is operating, making governance and risk management a moving target. Accepting a software update might mean accepting new AI-powered features, sometimes without realising the implications for data privacy or security.
Four Pillars of AI Value
Across industries, Evinact identifies four core opportunities for real value to be derived from AI:
- Content Generation: AI is now a creative partner, drafting job ads, emails, and social posts in seconds. It’s a productivity booster, but also raises questions about authenticity and bias.
- New Products & Services: From personalised shoes to innovative airplane components, AI enables rapid design and customisation, reshaping how companies bring ideas to market.
- Efficiency Gains: Routine tasks are automated, freeing up time for higher-value work. The challenge is ensuring that speed doesn’t come at the expense of quality or ethical oversight.
- Enhanced Experiences: Chatbots and automation improve customer and employee experiences but require transparency about how decisions are made and data used.
Human Skills Still Matter
AI can streamline processes, but it can’t replace the nuanced understanding, empathy, and consultative skills that humans bring. A recruitment executive reminded us that, for example, AI can write job ads and filter resumes, but it can’t uncover the deeper needs of clients or candidates. The future belongs to those who can blend technology with human insight.
Bias and Equity
AI systems learn from the data they’re fed. If that data reflects existing biases, AI can reinforce inequities, especially in hiring and promotion. There’s a growing need for organisations to actively identify and address bias, both in their data and in their decision-making processes.
Neurodiversity and Accessibility
AI offers new tools for neurodivergent individuals, such as summarising meetings or supporting communication. But it also introduces risks around privacy and vulnerability. We heard from the CEO of Autism Queensland on the opportunities and challenges of harnessing AI’s potential for inclusion, while safeguarding sensitive information and protecting individuals.
Governance and Ethics
As AI evolves, so must our approach to governance.
“It comes down to how you use it for good, not evil. This is where governance becomes imperative.”
Ethical standards, transparency, and ongoing education are essential. It was clear that organisations need to ask tough questions about strategy, risk, readiness, future capabilities and people. Good governance means not just compliance, but a commitment to using AI for genuine value and positive impact.
The Bottom Line
“Focus on AI readiness. Take small steps, test things, pilot things, fail fast, move on, do something different.”
AI is a powerful tool, but it’s not a panacea. Success depends on thoughtful strategy, ethical oversight, and a relentless focus on the human experience and real-world implications. The organisations that thrive will be those that embrace the opportunity, innovate iteratively, address risks head-on, and keep people at the centre of their AI journeys.
Ready to unlock the full potential of AI for your organisation?
Discover how Evinact’s tailored solutions can help you build ethical, inclusive, and future-proof AI strategies. Let’s work together to turn challenges into opportunities. Connect with Evinact today to start your journey.
