Al-driven transformation must be human-centric

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way businesses operate around the world, but Boomi Chief Executive Officer Steve Lucas says real digital transformation must be human-centric to be truly successful.

- By Cathy Rose A. Garcia

At last month's Boomi World, Mr. Lucas said it is important to make sure that people are still at the center of AI-driven transformation.

"I believe it would be the most profound and productive decade in the next 10 years. I believe humans truly will live longer, healthier lives thanks to AI. All of us will benefit from that. But we have to stop and contemplate what societal, what business impacts AI will have," he said.

In his best-selling book "Digital Impact: The Human Element of AI-driven Transformation," Mr. Lucas said it would be a mistake to focus on AI without considering how it affects people.

"AI and automation are powerful but their success hinges on one thing: The people who use them. Without a human-centric approach, even the most advanced technology will fail," he added.

A self-described AI optimist, Mr. Lucas said AI will unlock more opportunities for businesses and the world.

However, he warned that those who lack a strategy for taking advantage of the technology will not be able to compete.

"For every one Blockbuster Video, that one cautionary tale, there will be 100,000 Blockbusters thanks to AI... I know that that may not be the most popular opinion, but it's true. AI will create such incredibly productive environments that organizations that are relying on humans alone or deterministic process alone, you won't be able to compete...

We're not talking 10 years from now, we're talking five," he said.

Integration and automation are essential for businesses to get the most out of AI, he added.

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