Human-AI chemistry, case studies of novel deployable solutions, organizational reinvention, and more

January 26, 2026

“AI isn’t here to replace our team but to amplify what makes us exceptional. It helps us think bigger, move faster, and serve smarter, without losing our human touch.” – Todd Ariss

AI adoption and transformation

Over the last weeks I have been working with a financial services client on building and implementing their AI roadmap for transformation. It is a highly diversified organization, as many are, so where value resides will be quite different across different divisions and departments.

One of the key design factors for this and other companies’ journey is centralization vs decentralization. Across the company there needs to common enablers, including integrated data platforms, clear governance, processes for implementing, monitoring, and scaling pilots, and relevant skill development programs. Each unit needs to prioritize use cases, develop its own internal skills and capabilities, and accelerate its own pathway within the broader organizational roadmap.

Balancing and integrating these two elements well is a powerful foundation for succcess.

Be well!

Ross

 

📖In this issue

  • Framework: Humans + AI Workflow Principles

  • Humans + AI update: Executives vs workers on value from AI, meaningful AI adoption case studies, and human-AI chemistry.

  • Humans + AI Podcast: Nikki Barua on reinvention, reframing problems, identity shifts for AI adoption, and the future workforce

💡Framework: Humans + AI Workflow Principles

The core concept of Humans + AI is in the flow of work with and between the complementary participants. There are seven key principles that underlie the design of Humans + AI workflows.

🧠🤖Humans + AI

Executives see and get far more value from AI than workers

A study shows vastly different attitudes and outcomes from AI depending on seniority. Executives find it very useful, with 43% reporting they are saving 8 or more hours a week, compared to 5% for those who aren't managers.

AI adoption case studies: Meaningful, Intelligent, Novel, Deployable Solutions

World Economic Forum has created an excellent compilation of AI adoption case studies framed what they call MINDS, with many of them focused on Humans + AI work and perspectives.

Human-AI competency as a core organizational capability

A Capgemini report on AI adoption focuses significantly on “Human-AI Chemistry” as a core capability in enabling effective Human-AI collaboration for productivity and decision-making.

🎙️This week’s podcast episode

Nikki Barua on reinvention, reframing problems, identity shifts for AI adoption, and the future workforce  

Why you should listen

Niiki Barua works across many organizations helping them reinvent themselves, driven by AI but focused on people and culture. In this episode she shares many specifics of how she works and where she has seen real change happen.

Thanks for reading!

Ross Dawson and team