Insights from Techarena - AI & Competitive Edge

Last week’s event brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and tech leaders as they navigated an increasingly unpredictable world.  A few key themes emerged for our management consultancy clients to navigate. 

1. We are moving from shallow to deep AI adoption

Many organizations are still experimenting broadly with AI, expecting productivity gains. But real impact requires depth: focus on a limited number of high-value use cases and connect AI agents to them. AI must be embedded in the business strategy - not just as a pure "tech initiative". The organizations that are furthest ahead are now systematically embedding AI into their core processes to generate tangible value. Some are already seeing the returns and scaling further. 

2. Accuracy and security are becoming increasingly important

Data integrity and accuracy are becoming more complex as AI-generated content increases, and industries are affected differently. The importance of balancing flexibility with secure data environments is increasing.

3. Dual-use capabilities create resilience

AI capability is becoming strategic infrastructure. Exploring dual-use opportunities is key to remaining relevant. The ability to pivot quickly may define resilience going forward and secure relevance and demand amid unpredictable market conditions. This is especially clear where defence adaptation and/or crisis-ready services can be applied.

4. Humans remain at the centre

AI should not replace people; it should replace time-consuming, error-prone tasks. Many companies struggle because technology moves faster than they can. Scenario planning and the ability to unlock AI to automate operations, generate competitive insights, and predict market shifts can create an advantage, but only if governance and ways of working evolve.  AI transformation demands more than focus - it requires cross-organizational goal alignment. Without shared priorities and coordinated execution, initiatives fragment and stall. Organizations that combine change management excellence with technological depth will lead 

5. In an uncertain market, focus is a competitive advantage in itself

No one knows exactly where we are heading. The pace of change is relentless. The successful companies will not blindly chase every new tool. They will:

• Adapt and drive initiatives based on a well-defined purpose
• Clearly communicate where they are going
• Adopt tech innovation for their business based on market relevance,  and continuously ask:

"What real value will this create - and for whom?"

For our clients, AI brings enormous opportunities, such as:

• AI-enabled integration of supply chain, pricing, and commercial strategy to align cost, demand, and revenue growth
• Embedding AI in core business areas and functions to drive measurable business impact
• Predictive insights and scenario-based decision-making to improve operational efficiency
• Stronger strategic positioning through data-driven leadership
• Optimization of customer interaction across the entire value chain