Viewed in Axios
AI is reshaping corporate boards, with many companies appointing AI bots as observers and integrating technology into their board strategy.
This shift reflects a growing focus on AI among large corporations, evident in repeated mentions during 2024 earnings calls. However, despite this emphasis, most boards lack the expertise to effectively guide AI strategies.
To address this gap, new applications of AI could support boards in making more informed decisions.
Real-time guidance with AI
For example, the UAE’s International Holding Company has appointed Aiden Insight, an AI tool developed by G42, to its board. Aiden Insight, created using Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI service, offers real-time insights and guidance during business meetings through continuous data analysis and ethical compliance monitoring.
Combining internal data with market data
G42 asserts that Aiden Insight combines a company’s internal data with external market trends to provide advice, particularly beneficial for energy, health, finance, and technology sectors. This move follows the trend of non-AI software, such as board portals, transforming board governance.
Learning stage
Recognizing the importance of AI competency among board members, the National Association of Corporate Directors has established a commission to develop AI principles for its members.
However, despite the growing recognition of AI’s significance, only a small percentage of S&P 500 companies have directors with AI expertise, and few have formal AI board oversight systems.
Proactive issue detection
Experts highlight the transformative potential of AI in the boardroom, facilitating more frequent communication between executives and boards and enabling predictive analytics to identify issues earlier. Yet, integrating AI into board operations raises questions about liability and the blurring of lines between management and oversight.
Embracing collaboration – Executives, Boards and AI
In conclusion, as AI continues to shape the corporate landscape, executives and boards must collaborate to harness its opportunities effectively, engaging in conversations not only with each other but also with AI agents.
