So what does AI and Diversity have to do with each other?

As a retired technology executive who transitioned into the diversity space due to my own experiences, I’ve always had a vision of the future of technology-powered business. My career pivot allowed me to focus on creating inclusive environments, but my interest in technology has never waned, especially as AI has become a cornerstone in many discussions. Today, AI isn't just a buzzword in tech circles—it's influencing every aspect of business, including HR, recruitment, employee engagement, learning and development, and diversity and inclusion.

The Intersection of AI and Diversity

As AI advances, particularly with companies like NVIDIA leading the charge, it's clear that this technology will reshape industries. But as we dive deeper into AI's capabilities, we must also ask: where are we in the journey of AI, and how does it impact diversity?

According to Gartner’s 2024 Hype Cycle, generative AI moves from the "Peak of Inflated Expectations" into the "Trough of Disillusionment." This phase represents a shift from initial excitement to a more critical examination of AI's real-world applications and ROI. While some might view this as a downturn, it’s actually a pivotal moment for the industry.

This phase is both a challenge and an opportunity for those focused on diversity. As companies reevaluate their AI strategies, there’s a risk that diversity could become an afterthought. However, this is also the perfect moment to push for more inclusive AI practices. Right now, AI systems often reflect the biases present in their training data, which can lead to outcomes that perpetuate inequality. By advocating for diverse data sets and ethical AI development during this phase, we can help ensure that AI evolves in a way that supports rather than undermines diversity.

In summary, while AI may be entering a period of scepticism and reassessment, this is precisely when we should be most active in shaping its future. By keeping diversity at the forefront of AI development, we can help create a technology that truly benefits everyone.