We surveyed 1000+ businesses for our State of AI in Operations 2025 report.

How are businesses approaching AI today? What are the challenges? What are the opportunities? What's already working?

We touched on these questions (and more) in our report, and held a follow-up conversation with our panel of experts:

• Scott Hutchins, VP AI & Integrations Engineering at Xurrent

• Eva Zivanovic, Glide Certified Expert and founder of Ziki Solutions

• Zac Harris, Director of SEO at Growth Plays, formerly Head of Demand Gen at Copy.ai

Summary

Our panel discussed the rapid advancements in AI and its impending impact on business operations over the next 12 to 18 months, emphasizing the importance of gradual AI implementation to avoid overwhelming employees.

Leadership plays a crucial role in driving adoption, recognizing the competitive necessity of AI to avoid being left behind. We noted a shift in traditionally slower sectors, like financial services, towards embracing AI, with an emphasis on organizational restructuring to maximize AI benefits.

There's a recognition of 'FOMO' driving many businesses to adopt AI to stay ahead of the competition. 

Leadership's Role in AI Adoption

Leaders are finally seeing the light when it comes to AI. They're not just talking about it—they're making moves.

Adopt AI thinking. Leadership buy-in is critical. When executives embrace AI, it sends a clear message: innovation starts at the top. This commitment inspires teams and lays the groundwork for successful adoption across the organization.

Stay ahead of the curve. Leaders who act now gain a competitive edge—while those who delay risk falling behind. Use FOMO as a motivator, not a fear. Evaluate where AI can have the biggest impact in your industry, and move with intention.

Cultivate a forward-thinking culture. A future-ready organization is one that welcomes change. Integrating AI into your company’s DNA—from vision to operations—makes it easier for teams to adapt and innovate with confidence.

Rolling Out AI: A Strategy Game

Getting excited about AI is easy. Implementing it strategically? That’s the real win.

Implement gradually. Start with small, targeted projects where AI can deliver quick wins—automating workflows, enhancing customer service, or improving data insights. Quick, visible results help build momentum and internal buy-in.

Create specialized teams. Dedicated AI teams or centers of excellence can streamline integration and drive focused, expert-led efforts. These groups act as internal champions, guiding best practices and aligning initiatives across departments.

Invest in training. The best AI tools in the world won’t matter if your people don’t know how to use them. Invest in tailored training programs that empower your workforce to engage with AI confidently and effectively. Cross-functional collaboration—between ops, tech, and strategy teams—is also key to scaling success.

Who's getting it right?

Some industries are surprising even themselves with how quickly they’re jumping on the AI train.

Be an early mover. In sectors like logistics and healthcare, AI is already delivering measurable gains. Meanwhile, industries that have historically been slower to adapt—like real estate and financial services—are finding fresh value in automating back-office processes and streamlining operations. If you’re in one of these spaces, now is the time to lead.

Ensure secure implementation. Balance innovation with security. As you bring AI into your organization, be just as intentional about protecting your data and systems. A secure foundation is essential for scaling.

Reorganize for success. Don’t be afraid to rethink your structure. Sometimes, integrating AI requires new workflows, new roles, or even new operating models. Reorganizing around AI-readiness can unlock deeper impact and agility.

Find more resources for deploying AI in your business on the Glide blog.