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Discover the future of HR through the lens of AI innovation with Annie Johnson, co-founder and chief product officer of Humaneer. Annie takes us on her incredible journey from a traditional HR role to spearheading AI-driven solutions that are reshaping how organizations operate. She uncovers the concept of purpose-led design, aligning technology with company values to create ethical and effective AI systems. Annie doesn't shy away from the tough topics either—addressing fears around AI, job displacement, and transparency, while offering practical strategies to mitigate these concerns.

As we continue, the conversation highlights the complexity of media's role in shaping public perception, particularly through fear-based narratives and information overload. By comparing industry-specific insights to mainstream media's sensationalism, we explore the balance needed to stay informed. With a keen eye on governmental and regulatory challenges, we delve into the importance of clear guidelines for privacy and security in this digital era. Annie shares how startups like Humaneer make strides in fostering an AI ecosystem that prioritizes safety and productivity.

Our discussion also reflects on the broader implications of technological advancements on job evolution, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful integration of AI that augments rather than replaces human roles. By examining historical shifts in job markets, we advocate for a strategic approach that aligns with organizational goals and enhances the human element in work. Join us as we celebrate the innovative spirit of New Zealand, where Annie and her team are making remarkable progress in crafting AI solutions for the HR industry. This episode is packed with insights, strategies, and a hopeful outlook on the collaborative future of AI in the workplace.

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In this episode, I'm joined by Melissa Crawford, a visionary leader who bridges the gap between technology and human psychology. Melissa shares her insights on the future of work, the power of strategic foresight, and the importance of human-centered technology.

We'll explore topics like:

• The impact of AI on the workplace
• The future of remote work and hybrid models
• The importance of human-centered design in technology

So, tune in to hear how we can harness the power of technology while keeping our humanity intact.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Tim Warren, an expert in luxury, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Tim takes us on a journey through the world of high-end cars, particularly the Rolls-Royce Spectre, and reveals how the lessons from this luxury brand can be applied to businesses of all sizes.

We’ll explore topics like:

• The importance of customer experience
• The power of specialization
• The role of technology in business
• The value of simplicity in design and processes

So, buckle up and join us as we unpack these insights and more.

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In this engaging episode, Ant McMahon is joined by Asa Cox where they explore the critical transition from AI experimentation to full-scale production.

They explore the hurdles businesses face, such as privacy, security, and governance issues, and the necessity of integrating AI into existing data systems.

As AI reshapes organizational structures, the conversation touches on the evolving roles and responsibilities within AI-driven organizations, including the potential emergence of new roles like Chief AI Officer.

• Transition from AI Experimentation to Production:
  • Moving beyond standalone AI tools to integrating them into business processes.
  • Overcoming challenges like privacy, security, and governance issues.
• Challenges in AI Adoption:
  • Addressing privacy and security concerns.
  • Ensuring data quality and integration with existing systems.
  • Shifting focus from proving AI’s functionality to demonstrating its business value.
• Customer Experience and AI Implementation:
  • Enhancing customer communication and service through AI.
  • Balancing automation with maintaining customer trust.
• Change Management and Communication:
  • Effective strategies for managing change and addressing employee concerns.
  • Communicating the benefits and impacts of AI adoption clearly.
• Evolving Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Reshaping organizational structures and job roles.
  • Potential emergence of new roles like Chief AI Officer.
• Practical Advice for Businesses:
  • Finding the right partners and experts.
  • Pushing for concrete commitments from tech vendors.
  • Leveraging collective expertise through collaborative efforts, especially for New Zealand businesses.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of AI adoption and drive meaningful change within their organization.

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If you're interested in your own copy of Fast Forward Aotearoa, visit https://www.ffwd.nz. use BIZBYTES10OFF at checkout for a 10% discount

In this episode, I'm joined by Ben Reid, author of “Fast Forward Aotearoa", his latest book which explores How Exponential Technology is Defining the Future of New Zealand… and What We Can Do About It.”

During our discussion we delve into the rapid pace of technological acceleration and its profound impact on New Zealand. Ben shares the motivation behind his book, highlighting the growing gap between global tech centers and New Zealand, and the urgent need for the country to catch up. We explore the concept of techno-optimism and its implications for New Zealand’s future, balancing this optimism against the realities of climate change and geopolitical instability.

Our conversation covers a range of critical topics, including the potential societal impact of AI, the future of work, and the importance of skills development and education in the AI era. Ben discusses the challenges of increasing energy consumption due to AI and computing demands, and the need for sustainable energy solutions.

We also examine New Zealand’s technological strategy and sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of developing a broader objective function beyond GDP and considering environmental and social externalities in business and national strategies. Ben provides insights into the potential for decentralised and open-source technologies to rebuild capability and maintain technological sovereignty.

Additionally, we discuss the role of data centres and infrastructure in New Zealand, the balance between relying on hyperscalers and maintaining local control, and the government’s role in building its own data centre for sovereignty.

Join us as we unpack these critical topics and consider the future of New Zealand in the age of AI. Lets get on with the episode!

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As outlined in our previous episode, productivity is one of three key levers in generating business success so it’s vital we take it seriously.

One of the driving factors of sub-par productivity is waste. Waste can be found in both doing or spending too much – inefficiencies and duplication; or not doing enough – untapped or underutilised potential.

• TIMWOOD Model: A productivity model identifying waste in organizations, crucial for business success.
• Five Key Areas: Combines TIMWOOD and DOWNTIME into five areas to evaluate performance and identify improvements.
• High-Level Questions: Provides questions to assess transport, inventory, defects, skills, and overprocessing in your organization.
• Unique Solutions: Emphasizes that solutions are specific to each organization, with future blogs to discuss examples.

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Optimise Costs, Revenue, and Efficiency to drive positive change that sticks.

In today's episode we focusing on three key areas.

First, the core business levers: managing costs, growing revenue, and improving efficiency.

Second, digital transformation: it’s not just about new tech, but how it can reduce costs, increase revenue, and boost efficiency.

Lastly, strategic considerations for tech projects: we’ll look at metrics, motives, and mindset.

Let’s get started!

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Digital transformation can open many doors – giving you an exciting pathway towards innovation, growth, customer and staff fulfilment, and that sought-after competitive edge. But like most things in business and life, risks lurk in the background.

Don’t let this put you off continuing to develop and adapt though – when you have a robust digital roadmap in place you mitigate the potential risks before jumping in.