In the “AI sets the table” approach, AI is leveraged before a meeting or workshop to generate materials, templates, or guidelines to be used in the room. Anna, the regional head of strategy at an automotive company, used generative AI to help her prepare for a strategy planning meeting. Her goal wasn’t just to organize the session, but to elevate the quality of the team discussion.
The second approach to bringing AI into the room is “AI at One Seat.” In this setup, AI runs on one device and joins the team discussion. This may involve one person typing or dictating on behalf of the group, or when the voice-to-voice feature allows AI to interact and contribute to the team conversation in a more seamless way.
Take the case of John, an innovation manager at a retail company, who is leading a project to develop a new service. In every team meeting, he brings his laptop and leverages AI as a methodological guide supporting the discussion, sharing best practice examples, identifying blind spots, and consolidating key insights throughout the meetings. During team brainstorming, he activates the mic, making the experience more spontaneous and natural.
The third mode, “AI at every seat” refers to a setup where each team member uses AI individually on their device during a meeting or workshop. In specific moments, participants are asked to interact with AI on their own devices, then bring those outputs into the group discussion for consolidation.
In many workshops, participants are invited to take a moment to think individually, generating ideas, reflecting on key topics, or jotting down thoughts before sharing with the group. Traditionally, these moments have relied on pen, paper, and personal insight. Today, facilitators can at certain moments encourage participants to engage AI as a thought partner, asking questions, exploring ideas, and deepening their reflections in real time.
Read more | HARVARD BUSINESS REVIEW