How developing key competencies can facilitate the use of generative AI, strategic action, and enable the construction and implementation of better solutions?

Our latest podcast episodes allow us to explore the means at our disposal (or to be developed) to achieve this.

Episode 187: Promises and Realities of AI with Matthew Cowen

This episode explores essential topics of the digital revolution, such as cloud dependency, the impact of artificial intelligence, Intel's challenges, and Internet governance.

Matthew offers us a rich and nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities of the digital revolution. The discussion highlights the need for critical thinking about the impact of technology on society and Internet governance.

More specifically, he talks about the gap between the promise and reality of AI in organizations.

It's worth noting that at the 2024 UX Conference presented at HEC Montreal on November 8th, Pierre-Majorique Léger informed us that the contribution of generative AI to organizations is currently very limited.

Generative AI assists less than 3.5% of all working hours in the United States.

This shows how much we are only at the beginning of significant transformations.

Question: How do you develop your teams' competencies regarding the use of generative AI in work processes?

Check out the episode here (in French): https://www.intelliaconsulting.com/episode187

Episode 188: Organizational Strategy with Henry Mintzberg

We were privileged to explore Henry Mintzberg's thinking in episode 188.

Mr. Mintzberg discussed the definition of strategy, its evolution in a constantly changing world, and the importance of strategic perspective.

He also addresses the challenges faced by large companies, the role of managers, listening to customers, and the importance of partnerships. Finally, he shares his thoughts on the evolution of strategy teaching and management practice.

He mentioned that strategy can be seen as a process and content, that companies must adapt to a changing environment, and that everyone in an organization can be a potential strategist.

Are we witnessing the decline of strategic thinking?

Mintzberg raises a major concern: the decline of strategic thinking in modern companies, especially those listed on the stock market. Short-term pressure and focus on immediate financial results can stifle creativity and strategic innovation. He cites the example of Apple, whose evolution since Steve Jobs' passing illustrates this trend.

Questions: How do you integrate the contribution of different collaborators in the organization to strategic thinking? Is the approach ad-hoc or systematized?

Check out the episode here (in English): https://www.intelliaconsulting.com/episode188

Episode 189: The Art of Asking the Right Questions

Making better strategic decisions involves the need to ask the right questions.

Asking the right questions improves alignment and understanding, promotes rigorous analysis, and leads to more impactful solutions.

The episode highlights the transformative role of asking the right questions in various contexts, from interpersonal communication to strategic decision-making and innovation.

We also offered concrete suggestions for improving question formulation.

Question: To what extent do you take the time to listen and step back for necessary analysis before seeking solutions?

Check out the episode here (in French): https://www.intelliaconsulting.com/episode189

Episode 190: Collective Intelligence and Decision-Making with Olivier Zara

Did you know that creative intelligence and collective intelligence are different?

Olivier Zara emphasizes that collective intelligence is essential for navigating an increasingly complex and uncertain environment. He highlights critical skills such as listening, humility, and empathy to promote effective decision-making.

He addresses topics such as decision-making excellence, the role of collective intelligence in solving complex problems, the need for authority, diversity management, and knowledge management.

It's important to understand the difference between decision design and decision-making, which are two distinct stages of a process. The decision-maker organizes and directs the design of the decision.

This shows that mastering the strategy formulation process is as important as the strategy itself!

Question: How do you find the balance between those who see the field (leaders) and those who live the field (customer contact) to build better decisions?

Check out the episode here (in French): https://www.intelliaconsulting.com/episode191

Episode 191: Management Consulting and Organizational Transformation

The success of transformation projects in consulting relies more on a collaborative approach than on an approach where the consultant plays only an expert role.

The consultant must be a change agent, not just an expert.

Collaboration between the consultant and the client promotes ownership of solutions. Whether the advisor is external or internal.

The "client-problem" relationship is at the heart of organizational transformations. Developing a shared vision enables collaboration, empowerment, and engagement of different stakeholders.

It is, therefore, essential to focus on this shared understanding.

The episode builds on previous episodes by emphasizing listening, decision construction, and their implementation.

Question: How do you involve those who will implement the transformations from the very beginning of solution construction?

Check out the episode here (in French): https://www.intelliaconsulting.com/episode191

Key Takeaways

Before any decision, take a step back and evaluate how it is possible to build better solutions through stakeholder involvement and collaboration.

Think in terms of both decision content and decision-making process. Promote mastery of strategic thinking and strategic action within your organizations for richer alternatives.

The development of these skills is essential.

Have a good week

Eric L’Heureux