Romain Zerbib at the Heart of AI Debates at the Masterclass

What are the main challenges and issues companies face today when integrating artificial intelligence?

Companies must overcome several major challenges to integrate artificial intelligence (AI). The first concerns corporate culture: some organizations, anchored in their past successes, show reluctance toward AI, preferring to rely on traditional models. This attitude can create organizational inertia, hindering innovation and limiting adaptation to new market dynamics. Internal political obstacles also arise, particularly due to the redistribution of power and skills related to AI, which can sometimes trigger resistance. Finally, there are numerous technical challenges: lack of AI expertise, the complexity of data processing, and ethical questions surrounding data use. Companies also need to manage the evaluation of return on investment, which is often uncertain and long-term, making it difficult to justify initial costs.

How can artificial intelligence transform sectors like recruitment, data management, and customer relations?

In recruitment, AI automates tasks such as screening applications, making it easier to identify profiles that match predefined criteria. However, human aspects, such as the ability to inspire or unite, still escape algorithms, requiring human intervention during interviews and final decisions. Regarding data management, AI provides powerful tools to analyze large datasets, uncover trends, and improve decision-making. This optimizes internal processes and allows for better anticipation of market shifts. In customer relations, AI is revolutionizing consumer expectations with tools like chatbots and personalized recommendations. It helps predict customer needs, improve their experience, and tailor services, as Netflix does with its recommendations. This sets a new standard, rendering more impersonal approaches obsolete.

How can this type of academic intervention enrich our students' education and prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow?

Integrating AI into academic training helps students understand and master technologies that will transform their future professional environment. By addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with AI, these interventions enable them to develop essential skills in areas such as data analysis, AI project management, and strategic decision-making. They also provide students with an in-depth understanding of the impact of AI on society and businesses, a key skill to anticipate future changes. Furthermore, these courses raise awareness of ethical issues and transparency challenges related to AI systems, preparing students to propose innovative and responsible solutions that respect human imperatives. These skills will make them more competitive and better equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow's world.