Navigating the AI Hype: Key Insights from Industry Leaders

The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked both excitement and skepticism. At a recent panel discussion hosted by Kelsey Chang, industry leaders explored the realities of AI adoption, strategies for success, and future trends. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation, including insights from my own journey scaling AI-driven ventures like Expensya and Thunder Code.

Bridging the Gap Between AI Expectations and Reality

While AI’s capabilities are undeniable, its impact today is often limited by three critical factors:

1. Adoption Challenges: Example: 61% of France’s population has never used AI, highlighting a steep adoption curve.
2. Workflow Integration: AI must seamlessly embed into daily workflows—users shouldn’t need to “go out of their way” to leverage it.
3. Trust and Security: Privacy concerns and reliability doubts slow adoption, even as the technology itself advances.

Mahmoud Lockhat (CTO at Technology) emphasized that unrealistic expectations about AI’s “speed to value” amplify this gap. Organizations often overlook the need for high-quality data, infrastructure, and cultural transformation. Meanwhile, Lars Gaman (Chief Digital Officer, Qatar Insurance Group) stressed balancing visionary thinking with practical execution, especially in regulated sectors like insurance.

AI in Action: Industry-Specific Strategies

1. Insurance: Experimentation and Data-Driven Innovation

Lars shared how AI is transforming insurance through claims processing, customer interactions, and parametric insurance models. His team runs time-bound proofs-of-concept (POCs) to test AI solutions, prioritizing internal data assets while collaborating cautiously with external partners.

2. Agentic AI: Delegating Workflows, Not Replacing Humans

At Thunder Code, we focus on Agentic AI—delegating repetitive tasks (like software testing) to AI agents that mimic human behavior. The key? Target pain points where human resources are scarce, ensuring minimal workflow disruption. As I noted:

“We’re not replacing humans; we’re enabling them to become superhuman through collaboration.”

3. Cross-Industry Integration: Start with Problems, Not Tech

Mahmoud outlined a universal blueprint for AI success:

• Anchor to business goals: Solve tangible problems (e.g., inefficiencies, customer friction).
• Assess data readiness: Build a robust data strategy to support AI orchestration.
• Prioritize quick wins: Validate value early to build organizational confidence.
• Invest in talent: Upskill teams and hire roles like AI architects and data scientists.

The Future of AI: Trends to Watch

• Autonomous Agents: Mahmoud predicts AI-driven “personal concierges” that deliver human-like customer experiences across industries.
• From SaaS to Service-as-Software: I foresee a shift where AI agents replace traditional SaaS models (e.g., AI hiring agents displacing recruitment software, or what Thunder Code is doing: provide a full Quality Assurance service using Personas)
• Practical AI Applications: Lars anticipates consumer-facing AI tools that earn user trust, moving beyond hype to solve real-world problems.

Practical Advice for Leaders

1. Track Adoption Relentlessly: Usage often drops over time—design AI solutions that employees want to use.
2. Empower, Don’t Replace: AI should augment human expertise, not eliminate it.
3. Experiment Fearlessly: As Lars advised “Make your hands dirty. Build, test, and iterate.”
4. Ignore Short-Term Costs: Focus on long-term value—AI inference costs will plummet as adoption scales.

To go deeper: round-table

Final Thoughts

AI’s potential is vast, but success hinges on thoughtful execution. Whether you’re a founder or a corporate leader, prioritize adoption, invest in people, and align AI with real business needs. As the panel concluded: AI isn’t magic—it’s a tool that demands vision, patience, and pragmatism.

Let's build a future where AI doesn't just meet expectations—it redefines them.

Karim Jouini is an accomplished entrepreneur and AI specialist who founded Expensya and Thunder Code. His expertise lies in developing AI-driven solutions that solve real business challenges. As a respected voice in the industry, Karim regularly shares insights on responsible AI adoption at technology conferences worldwide.

Connect with Karim Jouini on LinkedIn for more insights on AI and entrepreneurship.