Earlier this summer, I attended the AI Engineer Summit, expecting to dive into stories about AI revolutionizing customer experiences. But surprisingly, the conversation focused mostly on prototyping — and the end users? Hardly mentioned at all. This struck me, especially considering the speed at which AI is being integrated into industries worldwide.

The constant drumbeat in AI news can make it feel like everyone will be out of a job by next month. Startups are pushing boundaries and breaking into markets as if they’re rewriting the future every day. That urgency is undeniable.

Yet, when you sit down with clients, the picture shifts. Many companies are still in the early stages of supporting their AI initiatives. Simple tasks—things that might feel like small wins to you—can be significant victories for them.

The takeaway? Balance the headlines with the reality on the ground. While it’s smart to let the hype inspire you to create forward-thinking products, it’s essential to keep your customers’ needs front and center. Help them see the potential of AI, guide them through early wins, and support their journey step-by-step. That’s where the real transformation happens.

If AI is on your radar, it might be worth exploring these conference recordings—you may just find a few golden nuggets to inspire you. Check them out here.

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