2790: How UKG is Redefining Workplaces with AI

Are we genuinely leveraging the full potential of AI in our workplaces? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I dive into an enlightening discussion with Hugo Sarrazin, Chief Product and Technology Officer at UKG, exploring how AI is transforming the landscape of work and employee engagement. UKG, a trailblazer in workforce management, is not only innovating in the realm of AI but also rigorously upskilling its workforce to harness these advancements. Hugo highlights how UKG's impressive team of over 50 AI scientists is one of its fastest-growing groups. He delves into the intriguing process of training over 1,000 people within their engineering organization, empowering them to leverage AI tools in their roles effectively. The role of hackathons in fostering a culture of innovation and creativity at UKG is another captivating aspect that Hugo discusses, detailing how these events drive product and service innovations. But how do employees and leaders perceive AI? Hugo provides insights from recent data revealing a dichotomy: while most employees are open to embracing AI, transparency from their organizations is crucial.  Interestingly, there is a disconnect between the perceptions of C-suite leaders and employees regarding AI usage in their daily work. Hugo addresses these challenges and the ethical considerations companies face as they race to adopt AI technologies. Moreover, Hugo talks about UKG's overarching strategy to maximize the impact of generative AI, creating better workplaces not just for office workers but crucially for the often-overlooked frontline employees. With 65% of today's workforce on the frontlines, UKG is pioneering the use of AI to enhance their experience, aiming to break the cycle of high turnover and burnout by catering to their needs for autonomy, mastery, and purpose. In addition to exploring these themes, we discuss Hugo's journey, from playing varsity water polo to leading product and technology at UKG. We also ponder the pressure of continuous learning in our fast-paced world and where one might turn to self-educate effectively. How is your workplace adapting to the AI revolution? Are the tools and technologies in place aligning with the needs and aspirations of the workforce? Join the conversation and share your thoughts on how we can collectively harness the power of AI to create more human-centric, efficient, and fulfilling workplaces. Check out the Sponsor of Tech Talks Daily. Step into the future of secure managed file transfer with Kiteworks. Visit kiteworks.com to get started. 

Om Podcasten

If every company is now a tech company and digital transformation is a journey rather than a destination, how do you keep up with the relentless pace of technological change? Every day, Tech Talks Daily brings you insights from the brightest minds in tech, business, and innovation, breaking down complex ideas into clear, actionable takeaways. Hosted by Neil C. Hughes, Tech Talks Daily explores how emerging technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, fintech, quantum computing, Web3, and more are shaping industries and solving real-world challenges in modern businesses. Through candid conversations with industry leaders, CEOs, Fortune 500 executives, startup founders, and even the occasional celebrity, Tech Talks Daily uncovers the trends driving digital transformation and the strategies behind successful tech adoption. But this isn't just about buzzwords. We go beyond the hype to demystify the biggest tech trends and determine their real-world impact. From cybersecurity and blockchain to AI sovereignty, robotics, and post-quantum cryptography, we explore the measurable difference these innovations can make. Whether improving security, enhancing customer experiences, or driving business growth, we also investigate the ROI of cutting-edge tech projects, asking the tough questions about what works, what doesn't, and how businesses can maximize their investments. Whether you're a business leader, IT professional, or simply curious about technology's role in our lives, you'll find engaging discussions that challenge perspectives, share diverse viewpoints, and spark new ideas. New episodes are released daily, 365 days a year, breaking down complex ideas into clear, actionable takeaways around technology and the future of business.