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HBR IdeaCast

Why AI Isn’t Enough To Beat The Competition

Oct 8, 2024
Jay Barney, a professor at the University of Utah's Eccles School of Business and co-author of "AI Won't Give You a New Sustainable Advantage," discusses the limitations of AI in creating lasting competitive edges. He emphasizes that merely adopting AI isn't enough; businesses must integrate it with their unique strengths. The conversation highlights how generative AI can enhance efficiency, especially for smaller firms, while stressing the need for a culture of innovation and adaptability to sustain advantages in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
23:28

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Quick takeaways

  • To maintain a competitive edge, companies must integrate Gen AI with their unique strengths, rather than solely relying on the technology itself.
  • Agility in business processes and fostering a culture of experimentation are crucial for successfully leveraging Gen AI and adapting to market changes.

Deep dives

Generative AI and Competitive Advantage

Generative AI has the potential to enhance efficiency across various sectors, including legal and technology, by automating tasks traditionally requiring human effort, such as drafting reports and coding. However, early adopters of Gen AI may see short-term gains, but these alone are unlikely to sustain a competitive advantage in the long run, as the technology is widely accessible to all companies. The primary challenge lies in the fact that while companies may reduce costs through Gen AI, those savings can be quickly neutralized when all competitors adopt similar practices. To achieve lasting success, organizations must integrate Gen AI with their unique strengths and capabilities to create a more individualized application of the technology that sets them apart in the market.

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