Gartner ThinkCast

Explore how generative AI initiatives can truly drive business value beyond just speed. Discover the concept of productivity leakage and why it can skew perceptions of success. Learn about the different dimensions of productivity and why they vary across employees. The discussion emphasizes the importance of matching GenAI use cases with employee experiences to optimize effectiveness. Tune in for strategies on prioritization and minimizing bottlenecks in your organization!

In this insightful discussion, Mary Mesaglio, a Gartner Vice President specializing in AI strategy, and Rita Sallam, a Gartner analyst focused on generative AI, break down the elusive question of AI value. They explore the three types of AI value: ROI, ROE, and ROF, emphasizing the need for leaders to manage AI investments as a balanced portfolio. Key topics include the pitfalls of productivity leakage, the importance of AI-ready data, and the critical role of governance and training in translating investments into measurable benefits.

In this insightful discussion, Gartner experts Alex De Fursac Gash and Kristina LaRocca-Cerrone explore the evolving role of CMOs amidst rising expectations. They delve into the transformative shift of AI from a mere tool to an active participant in marketing strategies. The duo highlights the importance of scenario planning to combat strategic dysfunction and the critical mindset shifts needed to navigate disruption. With practical advice on building resilience and seizing opportunities, they arm CMOs with strategies to exceed expectations and drive growth.

Soyeb Barot, Chief of Research for Gartner for Technical Professionals and VP Analyst, shares his insights on the future of computing. He discusses the rapid advancements in AI and quantum computing, and how they will reshape business strategies. Barot emphasizes the importance of proactive leadership in adapting to these changes and the need for organizations to embrace sustainable computing paradigms. The conversation also touches on revolutionary applications of machine learning and the ethical implications of emerging technologies.

Alexandra Earl, VP of Advisory for Gartner's Marketing and Communications Practice, emphasizes the pivotal role of managers in fostering employee trust and engagement. She introduces the four C's of Manager Communication Competencies: Championing, Coaching, Conversing, and Connecting. Alexandra explains how contextualizing information helps teams relate strategy to their work and offers practical self-assessment steps for managers. Discover how strong manager-employee relationships can enhance collaboration and retention in a rapidly changing workplace.

Dan Gottlieb, VP Analyst at Gartner, introduces the 'Great Sales Awakening'—a vital shift in how sales leaders must adapt in the age of AI. He discusses the declining effectiveness of traditional sales playbooks and the rise of agentic AI as a game-changer in account planning. Gottlieb emphasizes the need for AI literacy among leaders and outlines critical strategies for navigating quota pressures and leveraging AI for revenue growth. Tune in for insights on becoming a forward-thinking leader in this dynamic landscape.

Mary Mesaglio, a Gartner Distinguished VP Analyst, and Tina Nunno, a Gartner Fellow specializing in leadership styles, join the conversation to guide new executives. They reveal that 39% of new leaders struggle due to the 'triple constraint' of time, information, and relationships. Mesaglio introduces the Executive FastStart™ tool, designed to help executives achieve early wins. Nunno discusses her framework of four political leadership styles essential for navigating organizational dynamics, equipping leaders to assess and adapt in their new roles.

Daryl Plummer, a Distinguished VP Analyst at Gartner, shares his expertise on the rise of guardian agents—novel AI systems designed to oversee other AI technologies. He discusses their critical role in ensuring AI behavior remains safe and reliable as AI agents proliferate. The conversation dives into frameworks for deploying these agents and highlights the evolving complexity of their protective functions. Plummer emphasizes the necessity for organizations to engage with guardian agents to maintain quality control and enhance human-AI collaboration.

Gareth Herschel, VP Analyst at Gartner and expert in data and analytics, shares insights on navigating the complexities of AI in data initiatives. He emphasizes the crucial role of trust in both AI and data for success, alongside innovative governance strategies that enhance creative freedom. Herschel discusses measuring value beyond just ROI, highlighting the concept of 'return on the future.' Plus, discover how effective storytelling can bridge analytics with tangible business impact, making data more relatable and actionable.

Discover how agentic AI is revolutionizing productivity and collaboration in the workplace. Learn about the critical rise of AI governance platforms that ensure ethical responsibility and enterprise trust. Explore the increasing need for disinformation security tools to tackle deepfakes effectively. Unpack strategies to avoid pitfalls like ethics washing and shadow IT, as responsible innovation becomes essential in this fast-paced tech landscape. Stay ahead of the curve as we approach 2026 trends!