AI Today Podcast

Join Donna Gregorio, a seasoned IT Project Management Office head at MITRE and VP at PMI Massachusetts Bay, as she shares insights on harnessing generative AI in project management. Discover how tools like ChatGPT can revolutionize drafting crucial project documents, while emphasizing the need for human touch. From enhancing communication efficiency to practical prompt engineering for project managers, Donna highlights the balance between technology and human expertise. Tune in for a deep dive into embracing AI for transformative project success!

Pierre Le Manh, President and CEO of the Project Management Institute (PMI), dives into the future of AI in project management. He discusses PMI’s acquisition of Cognilytica, emphasizing the rise of AI certification to better equip project managers. The conversation reveals how AI is reshaping leadership roles and the importance of cultural diversity in fostering innovation. Le Manh also highlights the need for project professionals to adopt a broader success perspective that values human skills alongside traditional metrics.

Jay Kiew, Founder at Citizen Centric and innovation strategist, shares essential skills project managers need for success in AI environments. He highlights the importance of critical thinking, strategic storytelling, and iterative imagination. The discussion touches on the balance between human creativity and ethical considerations in AI technology. Kiew also traces the evolution of trust in AI solutions and explores how AI transforms organizations, enhancing automation and operational efficiency across various sectors.

Chris Mielke, a seasoned project manager from Accela Pharma Sciences with over 20 years' experience, shares invaluable insights on managing AI projects across industries. He discusses the unique challenges faced in the pharmaceutical sector, emphasizing ROI and data quality. Mielke delves into the CPMAI methodology, contrasting it with traditional Agile practices. He also highlights the importance of AI integration in project management and the rise of agentic AI, urging professionals to adapt and experiment with emerging tools for success.

Vince Lynch, CEO of IV.AI, discusses the challenges of managing AI-driven projects at PMI's Global Summit 2024. He emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and effective communication in AI management. Lynch highlights how project managers can adapt to AI technologies while fostering collaboration and accountability. He also explores the critical role of humans in selecting AI tools, defining outcomes, and understanding AI's capabilities and limitations, urging project managers to enhance their skill sets for successful AI initiatives.

Discover how AI and chatbots are revolutionizing customer service by automating tasks and enhancing efficiency. The discussion highlights the balance between AI solutions and the need for human interaction. Ethical considerations and limitations of current AI technologies are addressed, alongside the transformative potential for personalized user experiences. Learn about proactive AI applications that can detect customer frustrations early and improve engagement, while the hosts invite insights from listeners on their own experiences in the evolving space of customer service.

The financial industry is undergoing a revolution thanks to AI, enhancing efficiency and innovation. Routine tasks are being automated, reducing errors and optimizing processes. AI chatbots and virtual assistants are personalizing customer experiences in banking. Additionally, advanced fraud detection techniques are improving security by analyzing data patterns. The podcast highlights diverse applications of AI, encouraging listeners to explore its potential across different sectors.

Discover how AI is revolutionizing project management with tools that streamline tasks like report generation and risk analysis. The discussion emphasizes the balance of human oversight alongside machine capabilities. Learn about the transformative effects of AI in improving communication and efficiency, as well as its role in expense forecasting and budget optimization. The insights offered show how data-driven decision-making can be enhanced with tailored AI applications, ultimately boosting project success and professional skills.

Kathleen Walch and Ron Schmelzer, managing partners who recently joined PMI's Senior Leadership Team, share thrilling news about the acquisition of Cognilytica by the Project Management Institute. They reflect on their journey over the past eight years and discuss the integration of AI in project management. The conversation dives into the development of the CPMAI methodology and its certification transition under PMI branding. They emphasize the importance of audience involvement and excitement for future resources, ensuring continuity in AI thought leadership.

The hosts dive into the evolving public sentiment towards artificial intelligence, questioning if enthusiasm is waning. They highlight a shift from excitement over generative AI tools like ChatGPT to skepticism from investors. There’s an exploration of how businesses are seeing significant growth from AI, challenging prior doubts. The conversation touches on the importance of government regulations, like the EU-AI Act, and stresses the need for balanced views on AI's potential benefits and challenges in society.