Deploying AI into business is rarely simple or straightforward. Instead, it raises a lot of questions and concerns as AI is a technological revolution as much as it is a people-driven change. However, waiting in the sidelines is no longer an option: Whether you are in tech, business, retail, public services, or creative sectors, understanding AI is mandatory in staying competitive and innovative.
This October was a true milepost for Finnish AI knowhow, as AI Finland hosted the first-ever AI Gala at the heart of Helsinki. Attending gala events is often a heightening experience, and the first AI Gala was also a refreshing one! Bringing together the right mix of good vibes, creativity, and meaningful conversations – much like Slush or even legendary events such as HP Bazaar and MobileMonday.
As we have entered the era of AI, it is clear that the scene has changed a lot. In fact, it would be even silly to try to play the games of tomorrow with the rules of yesterday.
While it’s possible that AI may not be as transformative as some predict, and it might just be another turn on the hype cycle, the recent AI Gala offered clear, real-world examples of innovative services already making a difference. These new applications are not only groundbreaking but are actively shaping the future. That’s why we can’t afford to ignore AI –we need to embrace it boldly and aim high with our ambitions. By leveraging this technology thoughtfully and creatively, we can harness its potential to drive real change.
Here are some key takeaways aspired from the AI Gala – many of which can be applied right away:
Show your real-world AI use cases
Instead of painting pictures of future AI concepts or highflying jargon, be bold in showcasing concrete examples and results of how AI is being used to solve complex, real-world problems. This applies from healthcare to manufacturing industries, even the creative fields.
Go after growth and creating value with AI
Accoring to many presentations in the AI Gala, organizations seem to have a critical need to deeply understand AI’s potential. The message was clear: modern day growth and value are increasingly tied to how effectively we can harness the power of AI. Also, it is no longer an option to sit on the sidelines—whether you are in tech, business, retail, public services, or creative sectors, understanding AI is mandatory in staying competitive and innovative.
Rethink and renew – though it’s not going to be easy
If you are just starting to leverage AI in your own organization, here’s a basic tip to guide you: Start with your core problems. Take a step back and think about the fundamental challenges your organization faces every day. How could AI help solve these problems in a different—or even revolutionary—way? Often, the key to successful AI integration isn’t about adopting the latest trend, but about understanding where AI can provide real value in your specific context.
Then take a big step back to have courage to rethink and renew your business from the core and from the outside in, not from the surface such as supportive functions. Make sure that AI is not a futuristic concept but a transformational tool with a significant positive impact. This is probably not easy, but the greatest things rarely are.
Learn from the finalists!
AI Gala 2024 was a great reminder that we are only scratching the surface of what is possible with AI. Events like this are the perfect grounding element to fuel innovation and ambition levels to keep us driving forward. So, whether you are already deep in your AI game or just starting to explore, this is an exciting time to be part of the conversation. To keep that energy going, check out the list of AI Gala finalists. It is a great compilation of interesting state-of-the-art AI solutions to be inspired by when hunting for your organisation’s AI solution.
What will your organisation do differently in the era of AI?
AI study by Gofore:
Intensifying competition in the manufacturing industry
When will AI impact the competitive landscape of the manufacturing industry in a big way? What have been the first AI business moves? Are AI strategies up and running? To understand the AI landscape of Finnish manufacturing companies better we interviewed its leaders. Read the results from the report.
