19. AI and Enterprise: Building Innovation Beyond the Hype

In this episode, John Mills, research and innovation expert turned entrepreneur, cuts through the AI hype to explore what really drives successful enterprise adoption. With 14 years of experience working with emerging technologies at the University of Central Lancashire and recent transition to running his own AI consultancy for newsrooms, John offers a unique perspective on innovation in practice.Rather than getting caught up in "either utopia or doom" narratives, John focuses on the fundamental characteristics that make entrepreneurs and organisations successful with AI. He explores the importance of calculated risk-taking, having a clear "why" beyond just making money, and developing organisational "ambidexterity" - the ability to excel at core missions while experimenting with new opportunities.The conversation delves into a fascinating case study from Danish tabloid publisher Ekstra Bladet, who tackled AI uncertainty using innovative "three horizons" planning - from 6-month tactical implementations to 5-year future-scoping with university partners. John explains how they measured success differently across each horizon, accepting uncertainty while maintaining strategic direction.We explore the critical challenge facing all organisations: translation - moving from "what can AI do?" to "what does this mean for us?" John draws on his journalism background to discuss why trust remains the cornerstone of any AI strategy, particularly in media where credibility can be lost in seconds.The discussion spans practical applications from newsroom automation to drone technology in dangerous environments, always returning to the central theme that successful AI adoption is fundamentally about people - understanding stakeholder needs, concerns, and opportunities rather than chasing technological novelty.John's pragmatic approach reminds us that "it's just computers doing computer stuff" - but the real innovation lies in thoughtful application that serves communities and creates genuine value.AI Ethics Now Exploring the ethical dilemmas of AI in Higher Education and beyond. A University of Warwick IATL Podcast This podcast series was developed by Dr Tom Ritchie and Dr Jennie Mills, the module leads of the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠IATL module ⁠"The AI Revolution: Ethics, Technology, and Society"⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ at the University of Warwick. The AI Revolution module explores the history, current state, and potential futures of artificial intelligence, examining its profound impact on society, individuals, and the very definition of 'humanness.'   This podcast was initially designed to provide a deeper dive into the key themes explored each week in class. We want to share the discussions we have had to help offer a broader, interdisciplinary perspective on the ethical and societal implications of artificial intelligence to a wider audience. Join each fortnight for new critical conversations on AI Ethics with local, national, and international experts. We will discuss: - Ethical Dimensions of AI: Fairness, bias, transparency, and accountability. - Societal Implications: How AI is transforming industries, economies, and our understanding of humanity. - The Future of AI: Potential benefits, risks, and shaping a future where AI serves humanity. If you want to join the podcast as a guest, contact [email protected].