Okay, so you are open to change, enabling a learning environment, and expect that change will continue to happen for some time! First, you need to identify your role within the organization. Here’s a breakdown of the three main zones:
- Strategic Zone (C-Suite, Executives, Directors): You make high-level decisions impacting the entire organization. If you do not operate in this space, no worries! Often, leaders in the strategic zone have advisors, a trusted partner, and/or friend in the organization that is in the operational level. Even you have influence.
- Operational Zone (IT Heads, Department Heads): You ensure smooth operations, implementing policies and supporting the Strategic Zone. In addition, you enable the people in the Tactical Zone to do their jobs. If you do not operate in this space, no worries – again! People at this level have go-to experts at the tactical zone!
- Tactical Zone (Individual Teams & Functionaries): You perform daily tasks and have the most direct opportunity to experiment with GenAI. Personally, I believe this is the best zone to engross yourself into genAI!
Recommendations by Zone:
Let’s take a look at what you should focus on in regards to GenAI for each zone.
Strategic Zone:
- Acknowledge and Plan: Communicate the importance of GenAI and develop a preliminary policy. Research existing frameworks like the EU AI Act or Gartner’s AI TRiSM to assess your organization’s preparedness or gaps.
- Establish Tiger Teams: sponsor dedicated teams to evaluate GenAI security and ensure appropriate data access control (e.g., preventing access to private information – PII).
Operational Zone:
- Leverage Existing Tools: Explore GenAI add-ons for your existing technologies. This saves time, cost, and avoids introducing complex new tools. We all know the amount of hoops to get a new technology approved.
- Empower Tiger Teams: Dedicate resources and time for your tiger team to thoroughly test GenAI technologies. Ensure that the activity is not a “second” project for team members. I have seen similar set ups. Team members have conflicting priorities and with little to no oversight or support from the strategic level.
- Find and Train Passionate People: Identify individuals excited about GenAI and provide them with training to maximize the technology’s effectiveness. You can have the best tool but without proper training, you will be missing the target. GenAI introduces a new way of thinking that was not required in prior years. Ensure you have a dedicated training plan in place.
Tactical Zone:
- Boost Your Work Efficiency: Investigate how GenAI can improve your daily tasks. Your position doesn’t matter – technical or non-technical – think of how the new technology may improve your daily workflow.
- Embrace Exploration: Experiment with GenAI tools and see how they can enhance your workflow (e.g., improving dashboards, creating content). We all dislike dashboards but genAI may change the way we use them and for the better.
- Learn the Fundamentals: Invest time in understanding core GenAI concepts and terminology. This will equip you to explain them to others and become a future leader in the field.
Bonus Tip: Check out the article “GenAI Great! … Let’s Start?” for a list of common GenAI terms I learned to get an idea.
Remember: The tactical zone is ideal for learning, experimenting, and practicing with GenAI. By understanding your role and following these recommendations, you can begin to effectively navigate the world of Generative AI.
Bonus Points: Can you guess my favorite zone?
Want to know more? I’m here to help! I love building things with tech that make work easier and more fun. Let’s chat and see how genAI can change the way you work!
