Five Key Takeaways from the Great Progression Series: Real Implications
On May 24, Reinvent Futures’ inaugural Great Progression Series event in San Francisco united thought leaders, innovators, and investors who shared unique perspectives on the implications of generative AI. The event was guided by futurist Peter Leyden and included insights from Slalom CEO Brad Jackson.
Key takeaways
1. The power of community
The event underscored the strength that a multigenerational group of thinkers and doers has to influence the positive potential of AI. This shared commitment to action mirrored the sentiments expressed by Sal Khan, CEO of Khan Academy, in his recent TED Talk on the necessity for well-intentioned forces to “fight like hell for positive use cases.”
2. Shifting the enterprise narrative
Brad Jackson, CEO of Slalom, pointed to a future where businesses wield the power of AI, not just for increased productivity but also to live the values and execute the mission of the organization. By uniting power with purpose, we have the potential to trigger massive advancements and create a better world. This philosophy forms the core of Slalom’s commitment to integrate AI capabilities with our fiercely human ethos.
3. AI as a mirror to society
Tech author Tim O’Reilly reminded us that AI reflects both the good and the bad in society and encouraged us with the suggestion: “Don’t fix the mirror, fix the object of the mirror” — a sentiment shared by Lambert Hogenhout, chief of data analytics, partnerships, and technology innovation at the United Nations, also emphasized in Slalom’s AI for ALL: LIVE event in 2021.
4. Investing in data fundamentals
Brad Jackson emphasized the importance of investing in data fundamentals, as high-quality and diverse datasets power accurate and robust AI models. By prioritizing data integrity, collection, and management, organizations can build a solid foundation for AI-driven insights and innovations, paving the way for transformative advancements and competitive advantages.
5. Advocating for AI regulation
Jane Metcalfe, cofounder of Wired and founder of proto.life, implored the community to support the election of a Congress member capable of robust AI regulation to avoid premature policies that could stifle growth.
More in store for the Great Progression
This dynamic meeting was the first in an exciting series addressing generative AI. Additional events include:
- May 24: Real Implications — Exploring generative AI’s impact on industries and potential time horizons.
- June 29: Positive Potential — Revealing the full benefits before addressing potential challenges.
- July 27: Actual Risks — Strategizing responsibly by identifying and addressing risks.
What comes next
The first Great Progression Series event marked a thrilling start to discussing our shared responsibility to leverage generative AI for the betterment of humanity.
Slalom is focused on an inclusive approach to responsible use of AI. Collaboration among our partners, customers, and communities strengthens the ways in which we leverage AI technology and build better tomorrows for all.
As AI evolves, Slalom remains committed to imagining and co-creating a people-first future with other dreamers, innovators, and builders.
Slalom is a global consulting firm that helps people and organizations dream bigger, move faster, and build better tomorrows for all. Learn more about Slalom’s human-centered AI approach and reach out today.
