Bob Pulver speaks with Brian Fletcher, a musician turned software guy and founder of FM. Brian shares his unique journey from a journalism degree and a passion for music to a successful career in software development. He discusses the founding of FM, a consultancy that leverages AI to revolutionize software development and user experience. They explore the importance of human-centric design and innovative approaches to product development, including the use of synthetic personas for user testing. Bob and Brian explore the multifaceted applications of AI in various sectors, including communications, software development, and education. They discuss challenges in survey design, the importance of responsible AI, and the realities of AI adoption in organizations. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of education and the preparedness of future generations for a workforce increasingly influenced by AI technologies.
Keywords
software consulting, AI, user experience, digital transformation, content supply chain, synthetic personas, product development, technology, AI, survey design, communication, responsible AI, software development, client readiness, education, workforce, digital transformation, human-centric AI
Takeaways
- Brian's journey from music to software highlights the importance of following one's passion.
- FM is a software consultancy that leverages AI to enhance business processes.
- AI is revolutionizing how software is developed and deployed.
- Custom software solutions can optimize business operations uniquely.
- The concept of 'human in the loop' is crucial in AI applications.
- Synthetic personas can enhance user testing and product development.
- Agile methodologies are essential for rapid product development.
- AI can transform entire processes, not just digitize them.
- FM aims to build as quickly as possible to gain insights and pivot effectively.
- AI can enhance corporate communication and training.
- Responsible AI emphasizes human oversight and understanding.
- The hype around AI is subsiding, leading to more realistic applications.
- AI is a tool that requires proper guidance and understanding.
- Client readiness for AI adoption varies significantly.
- Production challenges in AI implementation are substantial.
- Education must adapt to prepare future workers for AI.
- Critical thinking remains essential despite AI advancements.
- AI's role in society will continue to evolve and adapt.
Sound Bites
- "The entire process changes with AI."
- "You've sort of hyper accelerated that."
- "Humans should be in charge."
- "The hype cycle is dying down."
- "POCs are easy, production is hard."
Chapters
00:00 Brian Fletcher's Journey: From Music to Software
13:01 The Birth of FM: A New Era in Software Consulting
23:57 AI in Action: Revolutionizing Processes and Product Development
30:34 Survey Design and Data Collection Challenges
32:00 Applications of AI in Corporate Communication
32:46 Responsible AI and Human-Centric Approaches
34:50 The Hype Cycle of AI and Its Realities
36:35 Leveraging AI in Software Development
39:43 Understanding Client Readiness for AI Adoption
42:58 Challenges in Production and Adoption of AI Solutions
45:47 Education and Future Workforce Preparedness
Brian Fletcher: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianfletcher
For advisory work, marketing inquiries and more AIQ content:
Bob Pulver: https://linkedin.com/in/bobpulver
Elevate Your AIQ: https://elevateyouraiq.com
Substack: https://elevateyouraiq.substack.com
Thanks to Warden AI (https://warden-ai.com) for their sponsorship and support of the show! Warden is an AI assurance platform for HR technology to demonstrate AI-powered solutions are fair, compliant and trustworthy.
Powered by the WRKdefined Podcast Network.