Where the Boston Consulting Group Sees the Value in AI

Vladimir Lukic, Global Leader, Tech and Digital Advantage at Boston Consulting Group
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Episode Summary

In this episode, Marcus Zirn and Vladimir Lukic dive into BCG's latest report, Where’s the Value in AI?, highlighting why only a small percentage of companies are scaling AI effectively. They explore strategies for successful AI adoption, such as focusing on core workflows, optimizing operating models, and choosing fewer but deeper use cases. Vlad also discusses the challenges of data quality, the importance of embedding AI into business processes, and the evolving role of IT and product managers in AI-driven transformations. He wraps up by sharing practical insights and success stories from real-world AI implementations.

  • Episode Key Takeaways

    Episode Key Takeaways

    Focus on core workflows: Identify and prioritize the workflows that directly impact your competitive advantage. AI leaders are targeting mission-critical processes to maximize efficiency and impact.

    Rethink the operating model: Implementing AI requires more than just adopting new technology—it demands a full overhaul of your operating model. This includes realigning employee incentives, adjusting meeting structures, and embedding AI deeply into your business operations for long-term success.

    Quality data is crucial: AI can only be as effective as the data it’s trained on. Take the time to clean up and review your data sources. Bad data will lead to bad insights, so ensuring your data is accurate and complete is key to success.

    Build the right teams: AI integration needs both business insight and technical know-how. Build cross-functional teams with business owners, IT, and data scientists—ideally led by a strong product manager or agile coach—to ensure your AI projects are a success.

  • About Vladimir

    About Vladimir

    Vladimir Lukić is the global leader for Boston Consulting Group’s Tech & Digital Advantage practice, including BCG Platinion. Vlad works with leading organizations to accelerate the successful delivery of large-scale end-to-end digital transformations powered by digitization, data, and analytics. Vladimir joined BCG in 2006. He co-leads BCG’s AI at Scale offering globally, working closely with BCG X to support clients in their AI transformation journeys.

  • Top Quotes

    Top Quotes

    “I'm seeing Gen AI over the last two years, just being this trigger or a catalyst to put a lot of these perennial and constant topics visibly on the table.”

    “Only four to five percent of companies are actually able to deploy AI at scale… that's on one end pretty depressing, and on the other hand,  it also is showing how big of a gap there is between those that are leaning in and those that are not. They are falling behind, and it's widening.”