During the 3^rd webinar of the EDHEC Alumni “Focus IA” course, Yann Battard (EDHEC Masters 1993) provided some crucial clarifications on the adoption of AI in business. This expert in AI and founder of ADN IA (AI training and consultancy) also teaches this subject at EDHEC and at MBA level, as well as mentoring AIstos, a start-up dedicated to AI at the EDHEC incubator Station F. As part of the webinar, he shared his vision and experience of how AI is currently redefining standards in various areas.

Evolution and current state of artificial intelligence

Yann provided an overview of the evolution of AI, emphasising the transition from the expert systems of the 1950s to the current era of generative AI. He explained how the increase in computing power and access to mass data have served as catalysts for the development and adoption of AI in companies. This evolution has brought about a shift from niche applications to widespread usage, influencing all branches of business, from operations to market strategy.

Presentation of tangible AI applications in business

One of the most striking aspects of the webinar was Yann's presentation of tangible cases where AI has had a significant impact on operations and corporate strategy:

• Amazon Web Services offers quasi-instantaneous solutions to meet specific business needs, improving operational efficiency without the traditional complexity of software development.
• Carrefour adopted generative AI to roll out a marketing studio, a tool for creating digital campaigns and content that massively increases the productivity and responsiveness of content creation personnel.
• Klarna saves tens of millions of $ in the management of its operations by equipping its business processes with intelligent chat bots who assist personnel and clients.

Yann also spoke about energy optimisation at Google which uses AI to reduce the energy consumption of its data centres. This example illustrates how technology can contribute to environmental initiatives while at the same time optimising costs. Another, more surprising, example is the detection of “tax fraud swimming pools” via Google Maps! The tax authorities have used analysis of satellite images to detect undeclared swimming pools in private homes. This initiative allowed them to recover millions of euros, demonstrating the effectiveness of AI in improving compliance and the efficiency of public services.

Strategies for the successful adoption of AI

The final part of the webinar focused on winning strategies in the adoption of AI. Yann identified several key aspects for successful integration:

1. Evaluate the firm’s AI maturity: it is essential for the firm to evaluate its own level of preparedness to adopt AI. This includes analysis of the available data, internal capabilities, and technological infrastructure. Yann recommends starting out small, automating simple processes to accumulate quick successes that will motivate and educate internal staff teams.

2. Set clear and measurable goals: the goals for AI integration must be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound (SMART). Such clarity not only helps oversight of the AI project but also makes it easier to measure its success objectively.

3. Train and acclimatise staff: one of the biggest challenges is often resistance to change. Yann emphasises the importance of training staff not only how to use AI but also to understand its advantages and limitations. This helps demystify the technology and integrate AI into the corporate culture.

4. Adopt an ethical and responsible approach: it is crucial to consider the ethical implications of using AI. Yann recommends adopting transparent and responsible practises to manage data, respect user privacy and avoid potentially harmful biases.

5. Collaborate with strategic partners: lastly, working with reliable technological partners can accelerate the adoption of AI. These partners can provide the expertise, tools and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of AI.

In conclusion, this 3^rd webinar provided a rich and detailed overview of the ways in which AI can be strategically deployed to transform businesses and institutions. For those wishing to learn more about these topics, the replay  is now available online. Don't miss out on the upcoming “Focus IA” webinars and join EDHEC in Tech!

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT “FOCUS IA” by EDHEC Alumni:

Because we must learn how to make AI our ally …  artificial intelligence has become an unavoidable part of our lives and professional activities. We won't be able to do without … so we may as well make the most of it!

In the face of this reality, EDHEC Alumni aims to promote responsible and relevant usage of AI in a way that is adapted to the challenges we face.
Our approach is built on three convictions: stay informed to understand this complex topic …, understand it so as to use it well, and draw on the strength of our community.
 Together, whether simply curious, active users, experts or instructors, we aspire to make artificial intelligence a truly collective force, highlighting the wealth of our network and its capacity to favour mutual enrichment.

Learn more about the EDHEC Alumni “Focus IA” webinars and watch the replays:

• Introduction to generative AI by Alexis Rollin (16 September 2024) 
• Work more effectively with ChatGPT using prompt engineering by Raphäel Richard (4 November 2024)
• AI beyond the buzz: tangible applications, winning AI strategies for business by Yann Battard (9 December 2024)
• How to adapt your marketing strategy using AI by Adrien Fabry (20 January 2025)