AI is Here – So Why Hasn’t Everything Changed?
AI is advancing rapidly, but for many people and businesses, it feels like life hasn’t changed much. Professor Ethan Mollick’s observation sums it up well:
“Even if we had AGI today, most people wouldn’t notice. Changes to organisations, work, education, and life happen slowly. And technologies need specific uses that matter before they make an impact.”
This isn’t just about AGI – it’s true for AI in general. The technology is here, but the real transformation takes time.
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Why AI Adoption Feels Slow
AI has been making headlines for years, yet its impact seems inconsistent. That’s because while the tech moves fast, people, organisations, and systems move slowly.
Here’s why AI adoption takes time:
1. Organisations resist change.
Businesses don’t just flip a switch to adopt new tech. They need time to assess its value, train employees, and integrate AI into existing processes.
2. Workflows need rethinking.
AI isn’t just a plug-and-play solution. To make it work, organisations must redesign how they operate – a complex and time-consuming task.
3. Education and skills lag behind.
Schools and universities haven’t fully adapted to prepare people for an AI-driven world. Retraining workers takes even longer.
4. Practical applications take time to emerge.
AI needs specific, real-world uses to make a difference. Until businesses and industries figure out how to use it effectively, its impact remains limited.
What You Can Do Now
The slow uptake of AI might feel frustrating, but it’s an opportunity. If you take action early, you’ll be ready when the world catches up.
Here are five ways to get ahead:
Learn the basics. Understanding what AI can do helps you see where it fits in your life or business.
Identify opportunities. What tasks in your work or industry could AI improve? Look for specific use cases.
Experiment with tools. Try out accessible AI tools like ChatGPT or image generators. Small experiments can spark big ideas.
Focus on skills AI can’t replace. Strengthen your creativity, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking – these are harder for AI to replicate.
Stay adaptable. Technology evolves quickly. Be ready to adjust your approach as new tools and trends emerge.
The Surprising Truth
AI is already transforming industries behind the scenes. Yet, for most of us, the changes are subtle. This is important because it shows that AI isn’t about replacing everything overnight. It’s about incremental improvements.
Even if AGI – or advanced AI systems – arrived tomorrow, we’d still need time to adapt. That gives us a window to prepare.
What’s Next for You?
How are you preparing for the rise of AI in your field? Are you exploring its potential, or does it still feel distant?
PS: AI won’t wait for you, but you don’t need to be an expert to start. Small steps today can set you up for success tomorrow.
