Accenture’s Global Lead of the Institute of Applied Intelligence, Harsha Almad, commented on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on society, noting that it provides the ability to accelerate innovation through the use of data. AI and data are increasingly prevalent in all industries, from search engine results to automated AI assistance. AI innovators are working to ensure that clients experience a “compressed transformation” using these technologies.
According to Harsha, we live in a world of “Total Enterprise Reinvention,” where clients must adapt to transformation while acknowledging change and innovating. Accenture’s Total Enterprise Reinvention Report reveals that 86% of companies are accepting technological growth strategies.
Here’s how Accenture uses AI capabilities to encourage diversified transformation among its clients:
AI’s ability to transform the fundamentals of innovation
A recent survey conducted by Accenture has found that more than 75% of global companies have incorporated Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their business strategies and have adjusted their cloud plans accordingly in order to succeed in this area. Data and technology experts at Accenture continue to work with clients to help them understand how Deep Data frameworks can accelerate their businesses.
Harsha states, “You now have data and AI horsepower to drive business or societal value with greater impact.” Data analytics is as crucial for a cosmetic firm as it is for the healthcare industry. Continuing the advantages of a reliable data analytics model, Harsha says, “The client can sell beyond their services and come up with new services for customers. Data can help clients unlock new business models.”
Accenture has partnered with companies like Shiseido, a Japanese skincare and beauty firm, to use AI and transform the beauty experience for customers. Leveraging Accenture’s AI expertise, Shiseido has created an innovative B2C model that provides a seamless customer experience.
The AI landscape in India
AI has captured the interest of C-suite leaders worldwide. Focusing on the increasing priority of AI across government and non-government sectors, Harsha emphasizes, “India is the mother of innovations. The Indian government is investing heavily in AI. India’s Finance Minister has announced the establishment of three new centers for excellence for AI.”
The demand for high-tech specialists has become visible as educational institutes include subjects like AI and data science in their curricula. Moreover, “the hunger to learn about data,” continues Harsha, “is location agnostic. The skill is location agnostic. Individuals in tier two and three cities are as eager to learn about data as anyone else.”
Accenture is working to bridge the digital divide in India, with various courses being offered by the Accenture Institute of Applied Intelligence to AI professionals across the country. Harsha also discusses the importance of diversity and inclusion (I&D) at Accenture, saying, Harsha says, “Accenture is a diverse workforce. It is busting the myth that a person of a certain gender, geography, age, or religion cannot do something. Today we are leading from the top in terms of diversity. I&D is followed very consciously at Accenture.”
In order to bridge the gendered digital gap and provide equal opportunities for advancement for female employees, Harsha suggests two strategies:
1. Showcase female role models who are a great source of inspiration.
2. Provide upskilling opportunities for women who want to join or rejoin the workforce.
Accenture’s policies to bring more women into STEM and AI include the ‘Career Reboot
Program’ and ‘Girls in Tech.’ Harsha’s takeaway for all the women in tech is, “Women, keep learning and keep skilling yourself.”
Advice for women in AI
Harsha Almad, who has years of experience in deep data and AI, offers several pieces of advice to emerging and established female AI professionals:
1. Seek out good mentors and role models who have made career choices that you want to emulate. Also, build support communities where you can share ideas and opportunities and give back to your community.
2. Good leadership emerges when we actively skill individuals. We need to think about how the art of transformation works. Unleash the talent within yourself and others, for it is a critical growth element.
3. Reinvent your skills for your clients and community to elevate yourself. If you stay relevant, you will become a much sought-after resource at your company. Stay hungry and curious!
4. As an expert in AI, remember that technology complements your intellect. Use technological evolution to your advantage.
5. In the fast-paced world of technology, organizations will be in flux. So, expect change and stay prepared.
6. Participate in the knowledge economy using your tools and skills. Doing so will help you provide better value to your customers and community. Never stop learning.
Harsha stresses that we need to constantly upskill and reskill ourselves if we are to ride the wave of Artificial Intelligence which is revolutionizing the fabric of innovation in the age of diversity.
At Accenture, the Vaahini platform showcases how leaders from various backgrounds are sharpening these skills and delivering outcomes. Visit Vaahini to know more.
(The author of the article is Harsha Almad, Global Lead of the Accenture Institute of Applied Intelligence)
