Data is the Difference: In Conversation with Cornerstone

What this episode covers

Why will data be the differentiator when it comes to AI? Why are HR leaders focusing more on outcomes in 2026? What metrics are HR leaders using to measure success?In this episode of 600 Seconds in HR Tech, Dani Johnson sits down with Cornerstone’s Mike Baker and Kate Graham to explain why organizations are struggling to become skills-based organizations, how AI adoption is accelerating inside enterprises, and why clean workforce data is becoming the foundation for effective HR transformation.They also discuss how Cornerstone is evolving beyond learning management systems (LMS) into a broader talent and workforce planning platform focused on outcomes, workforce orchestration, and strategic skills intelligence. As Mike explains “if you’re not delivering an outcome through an investment in AI, then why are you doing it?”QUESTIONS ANSWEREDWhy Are Companies Investing in AI Right Now?According to Mike Baker and Kate Graham, many organizations are being pushed by executive leadership to become more AI-enabled, even when they are still figuring out how to implement AI effectively. Kate explains that many organizations feel caught in the “squeezed middle”: expected to adopt AI quickly while still lacking the infrastructure and data maturity needed to do it well.Why Is Data So Important for AI in HR?One of the biggest themes in the episode is that AI systems are only as effective as the data powering them. Without correct infrastructure or foundational data, AI systems risk producing inaccurate insights, weak recommendations, and poor workforce decisions.Mike and Kate also highlight how many HR teams still rely on intuition, nine-box grids, and historical assumptions instead of data-driven workforce planning.How Are Learning and Talent Functions Changing?Mike and Kate explain that learning and development teams can no longer operate independently from talent management and workforce planning.This convergence is pushing HR technology platforms toward more unified workforce ecosystems rather than standalone learning systems.TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction to Cornerstone OnDemand00:39 – What Are HR Leaders Talking About at Learning Technologies London?02:39 – Are Organizations Rearranging Themselves to Keep Pace?05:18 – How are Cornerstone and their buyers changing?07:06 – How is data influencing organizational readiness for AI?09:50 – How will access to data impact vendors?19:11 - Dani’s ReflectionRESOURCES & LINKSCornerstone Official WebsiteMike Baker on LinkedInKate Graham on LinkedInCONNECT WITH REDTHREAD RESEARCHRedThread Research Official WebsiteRedThread Research on LinkedInDani Johnson on LinkedIn

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