'What to do when machines do everything,150 actionable insights from this 2017 book about AI revolution you’d want to know right away in the era of AI

I was taken aback by reading this book! It was written in 2017, when ChatGPT did not exist, OpenAI was just a noob company as it was founded in 2015 and if anything, Google was presumed to be the best of the best industry leader in AI. The authors go in-depth about the three industrial revolutions and how they are important to understand the upcoming 4th one, that of automation and AI. Yet, this book very fairly predicted what is occurring with the advent of ChatGPT in 2023 and how things are taking shape all around us!

The book is full with countless practical real-life examples! I know you are hooked up and going to read this article I’ve written, but nevertheless, I highly highly recommend you go right ahead, buy the book from Amazon and read it right away!

 Book information and link:

What to do when Machines do everything:

Pages: 256

'What to Do When Machines Do Everything,' is written by Malcolm Frank, Paul Roehrig, and Ben Pring , thought leaders/ executives at Cognizant, was published in 2017.

The book discusses the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation on businesses, jobs, and society.  

A few bits about the book (why you should spend days reading it, I know I did!):

• The book provides insights into how businesses can adapt and thrive in the digital era.
• It addresses the concerns and anxiety people have about machines taking over jobs and tasks.
• The authors introduce the concept of the 'New Machine Rules' to help guide businesses through digital transformation.
• The book emphasizes that humans and machines can work together, with each party focusing on their strengths.
• It argues that automation can lead to an increase in productivity and economic growth.
• The authors discuss the concept of 'digital labor,' where AI and machines augment human abilities.
• The book highlights that organizations must invest in their workforce to ensure they can work effectively alongside machines.
• It provides case studies and examples from various industries that have successfully implemented AI and automation.
• The authors suggest that businesses should focus on tasks that machines cannot perform, such as creativity, empathy, and complex decision-making.
• The book introduces the 'Five-Step Model' for implementing AI and automation in businesses: Automate, Halo, Enhance, Abundance, and Discovery.
• The 'Automate' step involves using AI to perform repetitive tasks, freeing up human workers for more value-added work.
• The 'Halo' step focuses on leveraging data generated by machines to make better business decisions.
• The 'Enhance' step emphasizes improving human performance using AI and automation, such as providing personalized recommendations and assistance.
• The 'Abundance' step highlights creating new products, services, and business models using AI-driven insights.
• The 'Discovery' step focuses on using AI to explore new opportunities and uncover previously unknown solutions.
• The authors predict that the impact of AI and automation on jobs will be a net positive, creating more jobs than they replace.
• The book encourages businesses to develop a culture of continuous learning and innovation to remain competitive.
• The authors emphasize the importance of ethical considerations and responsible AI use to minimize potential harm.
• 'What to Do When Machines Do Everything' is a valuable resource for business leaders, policymakers, and individuals interested in understanding the impact of AI and automation on the future of work and society.

In the next part of the article, I have listed 125 actionable insights for humans to get the best out of themselves in the age of AI and the article ends with more 25 insights but for organizations who want their humans to thrive, thereby in total 150 things we, as humans can do in the age of AI based on this book!

Here are 125 take home insights of what we, humans can do to survive and thrive in the age of AI!

1. Embrace a growth mindset and be open to learning new skills and technologies.
2. Focus on developing human-centric skills such as creativity, empathy, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.
3. Stay informed about AI and automation developments in your industry.
4. Pursue continuous education, such as taking online courses or attending workshops, to stay relevant in the evolving job market.
5. Network with professionals in your field and join industry groups to learn about AI's impact on your profession.
6. Identify tasks in your job that can be automated, and learn how to effectively use AI tools to increase productivity.
7. Leverage the data generated by AI and automation to make better decisions and improve your performance.
8. Collaborate with AI and machines, focusing on your strengths and leveraging their capabilities.
9. Understand the ethical implications of AI and advocate for responsible AI use in your organization.
10. Cultivate a culture of innovation in your workplace by encouraging experimentation and risk-taking.
11. Be adaptable and willing to change your role or responsibilities as AI and automation reshape your industry.
12. Learn how to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical colleagues about AI and automation.
13. Identify new business opportunities, products, or services that can be created using AI-driven insights.
14. Develop project management skills to lead and manage AI-driven projects in your organization.
15. Seek opportunities to work on AI-related projects or initiatives, even if they are outside of your current role.
16. Understand the importance of data privacy and security in the age of AI, and follow best practices in your professional life.
17. Learn how to interpret and analyze data, as data-driven decision-making becomes increasingly important.
18. Practice using AI tools and platforms, such as machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, or computer vision, to enhance your skillset.
19. Be proactive in identifying inefficiencies in your organization that could be addressed using AI and automation.
20. Develop a personal brand that showcases your ability to work alongside AI and automation.
21. Collaborate with diverse teams, including data scientists, engineers, and designers, to build AI-driven solutions.
22. Build a strong online presence and share your knowledge about AI and automation through social media, blogging, or public speaking.
23. Understand how AI can be biased and work towards minimizing such biases in your professional life.
24. Foster a culture of collaboration and information-sharing among colleagues to create a collective understanding of AI's potential impact.
25. Finally, maintain a balance between embracing AI and automation and preserving the human touch in your professional interactions, as human connection remains essential in the digital age.
26. Develop expertise in a niche area where AI and human skills can complement each other.
27. Stay updated on AI-related regulations and policies in your industry to ensure compliance.
28. Practice effective time management to maximize productivity when working with AI tools.
29. Learn programming languages, such as Python or R, to better understand and work with AI algorithms.
30. Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration to develop innovative AI-driven solutions.
31. Find a mentor or coach who can guide you through AI-related challenges and opportunities.
32. Participate in AI-related competitions, hackathons, or events to hone your skills and network with other professionals.
33. Foster a psychologically safe work environment to encourage open discussion about AI's potential risks and benefits.
34. Learn about the limitations of AI and be aware of potential pitfalls when relying on AI-generated insights.
35. Advocate for transparent and explainable AI systems to ensure trust and reliability.
36. Incorporate AI-driven tools into your daily routine, such as using virtual assistants or recommendation engines.
37. Develop a strong understanding of your organization's AI strategy and align your professional goals accordingly.
38. Learn about the environmental impact of AI and support sustainable AI practices in your organization.
39. Practice active listening and empathy when discussing AI-related concerns with colleagues or clients.
40. Improve your problem-solving skills to effectively address complex challenges that AI cannot yet solve.
41. Explore opportunities for AI-driven personalization and customization in your profession.
42. Develop a strong understanding of various AI technologies, such as machine learning, deep learning, and reinforcement learning.
43. Understand the role of cloud computing in AI and its implications for data storage and processing.
44. Create a personal development plan that includes AI-related skills and knowledge acquisition.
45. Seek feedback from colleagues and supervisors on your AI-related work to continuously improve.
46. Encourage diversity and inclusion in AI development to mitigate biases and ensure equitable outcomes.
47. Understand the importance of data quality in AI-driven processes and strive for accurate, reliable data sources.
48. Build resilience and emotional intelligence to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of an AI-driven workplace.
49. Engage with AI-related academic research to stay informed about the latest advancements and breakthroughs.
50. Finally, celebrate your successes and achievements in the AI space, and share your learnings with others to foster a culture of growth and continuous improvement.
51. Identify ethical AI frameworks and incorporate them into your decision-making processes.
52. Learn about various AI applications in your industry and identify the ones most relevant to your work.
53. Develop presentation skills to effectively communicate AI-driven insights to diverse audiences.
54. Master the art of storytelling to bring AI-generated data and insights to life for your colleagues and clients.
55. Understand how AI can augment your decision-making process, while still maintaining your own judgment.
56. Prioritize your mental well-being in an increasingly digitized work environment by establishing boundaries and practicing self-care.
57. Volunteer for AI-focused projects or initiatives within your organization to gain hands-on experience.
58. Create a support network of professionals who share your interest in AI and can provide guidance and encouragement.
59. Attend industry conferences and webinars to learn about the latest AI trends and applications.
60. Explore how AI can enhance collaboration and communication within your team, such as by using AI-powered tools for project management or remote work.
61. Understand the role of cybersecurity in AI and adopt best practices to protect your organization's data and systems.
62. Learn to use visualization tools, such as Tableau or Power BI, to effectively present AI-generated insights.
63. Create a system for tracking your AI-related achievements and use them to demonstrate your value to your organization.
64. Research successful AI implementations in other industries and adapt relevant strategies for your own profession.
65. Develop a habit of reflecting on AI's impact on your work and updating your strategies accordingly.
66. Actively participate in AI-related discussions, both online and offline, to share your perspectives and learn from others.
67. Cultivate a sense of curiosity and explore AI applications beyond your immediate professional sphere.
68. Identify AI tools that can help you manage your workload more efficiently, such as task automation or scheduling assistants.
69. Develop your leadership skills to inspire and motivate your team in an AI-driven environment.
70. Create a portfolio of AI-related projects or accomplishments to showcase your expertise.
71. Learn about the social implications of AI and use this knowledge to address potential inequalities in your work.
72. Develop strategies to manage AI-driven disruption in your industry and prepare for potential shifts in your profession.
73. Establish a process for evaluating the effectiveness of AI tools and making adjustments as needed.
74. Develop skills in adjacent fields, such as data science, to enhance your understanding of AI and its applications.
75. Finally, actively promote a culture of AI literacy within your organization by organizing workshops, training sessions, or informal discussions to help colleagues better understand the technology and its potential impact.
76. Read non-technical books on AI and automation to develop a foundational understanding of the technology and its implications.
77. Subscribe to AI-focused newsletters or blogs targeted at non-tech professionals to stay informed about developments and trends.
78. Attend AI-related talks, panel discussions, or webinars aimed at non-technical audiences to expand your knowledge and network with other professionals.
79. Take introductory online courses on AI, machine learning, or data science designed for non-technical learners to build your understanding of core concepts.
80. Seek opportunities to collaborate with technical colleagues on AI projects, offering your domain expertise and learning from their technical knowledge.
81. Explore case studies of successful AI implementations in non-tech industries, learning from their strategies and outcomes.
82. Identify the AI-driven tools and platforms commonly used in your profession, and familiarize yourself with their functionalities.
83. Attend industry-specific conferences or events that discuss the impact of AI on your profession, learning about potential opportunities and challenges.
84. Join online communities or forums where non-technical professionals discuss AI-related topics, sharing experiences and learning from others.
85. Connect with AI experts in your industry on social media platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter, engaging with their content and expanding your network.
86. Practice explaining AI concepts and their relevance to your profession in simple, non-technical terms to improve your communication skills.
87. Leverage AI-powered productivity tools, such as virtual assistants or time management apps, to optimize your work routines.
88. Identify ethical considerations specific to your industry's use of AI, and advocate for responsible AI adoption within your organization.
89. Learn how to assess the quality and reliability of AI-generated insights, developing a critical mindset when evaluating AI-driven recommendations.
90. Develop strategies to manage information overload in the age of AI by prioritizing relevant content and setting boundaries on your consumption.
91. Understand how AI-driven personalization can enhance your customer or client interactions, and adopt relevant tools and techniques.
92. Cultivate a sense of curiosity about AI and its potential applications beyond your immediate professional sphere, fostering a broader perspective on the technology.
93. Discuss AI-related topics with friends, family, or colleagues to increase your comfort level and confidence in addressing the subject.
94. Engage with art, literature, or films that explore AI themes, stimulating your imagination and critical thinking around the technology's implications.
95. Create a personal development plan that includes AI-related learning goals, and regularly review your progress.
96. Develop your analytical skills to better understand AI-generated data and insights, even if you don't work directly with the technology.
97. Familiarize yourself with the legal and regulatory landscape surrounding AI in your industry to ensure compliance and ethical practices.
98. Volunteer for community or non-profit initiatives that leverage AI for social good, gaining hands-on experience and making a positive impact.
99. Seek feedback from technical colleagues on your understanding of AI concepts and applications, and use their insights to improve your knowledge.
100. Finally, document your AI learning journey and share your experiences with others, inspiring them to embrace the technology and its potential benefits.
101. Explore how AI can improve accessibility and inclusivity in your profession, and advocate for the adoption of such technologies.
102. Participate in AI-focused meetups or networking events in your local area, connecting with like-minded professionals and experts.
103. Identify successful AI implementations in adjacent industries, and consider how similar strategies could be applied in your own profession.
104. Develop your negotiation skills to navigate the increasingly complex business environment created by AI and automation.
105. Watch TED Talks or other video content on AI and its implications for society, gaining insights from thought leaders and experts.
106. Listen to AI-focused podcasts or audiobooks that cater to non-technical audiences, expanding your knowledge during commutes or downtime.
107. Understand the potential impact of AI on your profession's supply chain, and consider how your organization can adapt to these changes.
108. Explore the role of AI in shaping customer expectations and preferences, and adapt your strategies accordingly.
109. Familiarize yourself with the concept of digital transformation, and understand how AI plays a role in this process.
110. Leverage AI-driven analytics to identify market trends or opportunities, and incorporate this data into your decision-making processes.
111. Understand the implications of AI on intellectual property rights within your industry, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
112. Learn about the role of AI in enhancing cybersecurity, and support the adoption of AI-driven security measures within your organization.
113. Explore the concept of human-machine collaboration, and consider how this approach can be applied within your profession.
114. Cultivate a global perspective on AI by engaging with international experts, research, and case studies.
115. Understand the importance of data governance in the age of AI, and ensure the responsible use and management of data within your organization.
116. Develop your ability to manage uncertainty and ambiguity in an AI-driven business environment, enhancing your adaptability and resilience.
117. Familiarize yourself with AI's potential impact on employment and labor markets within your profession, and prepare for potential changes.
118. Learn about the concept of AI-driven design, and explore its potential applications within your industry.
119. Engage with AI-focused research and publications from non-technical perspectives, such as sociology, psychology, or philosophy.
120. Understand the potential environmental impact of AI technologies, and support sustainable practices within your organization.
121. Leverage AI-driven tools to enhance your personal brand, such as by optimizing your online presence or networking activities.
122. Explore how AI can be used to facilitate collaboration and communication across geographically dispersed teams.
123. Identify the potential financial implications of AI adoption within your organization, and consider how these changes may affect your role.
124. Learn about AI-driven tools and platforms that can help you manage stress and maintain mental well-being in an increasingly digitized work environment.
125. Finally, create a long-term plan for your career development in the age of AI, outlining how you can leverage the technology to achieve your professional goals.

What organizations can do to help their humans thrive in the age of AI and automation? Here are 25 insights for organizations from the book!

1. Invest in continuous learning and development programs for employees to help them acquire new skills relevant to the AI-driven era.
2. Create a clear AI strategy and communicate it effectively to employees, ensuring they understand the organization's vision and goals.
3. Foster a culture of innovation and encourage employees to experiment with AI and automation to find novel solutions and approaches.
4. Offer mentorship and support programs to help employees navigate the challenges and opportunities of AI and automation.
5. Establish cross-functional teams that combine human expertise with AI-driven insights, promoting collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
6. Prioritize ethical AI practices and create guidelines for responsible AI use within the organization.
7. Encourage employees to focus on tasks that require uniquely human skills, such as creativity, empathy, and complex problem-solving.
8. Recognize and reward employees who effectively use AI and automation to enhance their performance and contribute to the organization's success.
9. Implement a transparent process for evaluating the impact of AI and automation on roles and responsibilities, addressing concerns and anxieties among employees.
10. Provide regular updates on AI developments within the organization to keep employees informed and engaged.
11. Leverage AI-driven tools to enhance employee well-being, such as personalized wellness programs or mental health support.
12. Offer flexible work arrangements and remote work options, supported by AI-driven tools for communication and project management.
13. Organize workshops, seminars, or training sessions to increase AI literacy and awareness among employees.
14. Encourage employees to participate in AI-related conferences, webinars, or industry events to stay updated on the latest trends and applications.
15. Create opportunities for employees to work on AI-focused projects or initiatives, even if they are outside of their current roles.
16. Establish a system for recognizing and celebrating the achievements of employees in the AI space, fostering a culture of growth and continuous improvement.
17. Encourage a psychologically safe work environment where employees can openly discuss the potential risks and benefits of AI and automation.
18. Collaborate with educational institutions and other organizations to develop tailored training programs and courses for employees.
19. Foster diversity and inclusion in AI development and implementation, ensuring that the organization's AI systems are equitable and free from biases.
20. Regularly assess the effectiveness of AI tools and applications, making adjustments as needed to optimize performance and employee satisfaction.
21. Encourage employees to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, combining diverse perspectives to develop innovative AI-driven solutions.
22. Implement AI-driven tools that promote collaboration and communication within teams, such as virtual whiteboards or AI-powered project management systems.
23. Develop a strong feedback loop between employees and management to continuously improve AI implementation and address concerns.
24. Encourage employees to explore AI applications beyond their immediate professional sphere, fostering a sense of curiosity and adaptability.
25. Finally, create a roadmap for the organization's AI journey, outlining key milestones and objectives to help employees understand their role in the process and the expected outcomes.

So those are 25 actionable insights for the organizations, best practices to make our people thrive in the age of AI revolution.

While that ends my book summary article here…I’d request you to get the book and read it yourself…As reading such summaries is never enough to get everything the book has to offer! I am posting book information and link here below:

What to do when machines do everything, pages 256 Amzn:

I hope you liked my article! If you have anything to add to this list of 150 actionable insights for thriving in the era of AI revolution onto us.. feel free to do so in comments or reach out to me on profile via msgs.

Happy long weekend!