Rethinking “Bolted-On” AI in Learning Technology with Absorb Software

What separates truly AI-native learning platforms from software that simply adds AI features on top? In this episode of 600 Seconds in HR Tech, Dani Johnson sits down with Leslie Kelley live from the Learning Technologies conference in London to explore how AI is reshaping learning technology, workforce enablement, and business performance. The conversation dives into the growing divide between “bolted-on AI” and systems built for AI from the ground up, why learning teams must focus more heavily on business outcomes, and how closed-loop learning systems must continuously improve over time. Leslie also explains why learning organizations need to move beyond simply delivering courses and instead position themselves as strategic business enablers. As Leslie explains, “With every turn of the loop the system has to get smarter.”QUESTIONS ANSWERED What is “bolted-on AI” in HR technology?Leslie describes bolted-on AI as AI functionality added onto existing systems without fundamentally redesigning the platform. Examples include chatbots or AI-powered search features that exist separately from the core architecture. In contrast, Absorb believes AI should be embedded throughout the entire learning ecosystem.Why are organizations rethinking learning technology strategy?Organizations are under increasing pressure to prove the business impact of learning investments. Rather than focusing only on course delivery, learning teams now need to demonstrate measurable outcomes tied to workforce performance, skills development, and organizational readiness.What is a closed-loop learning system?A closed-loop learning system connects assessment, learning experiences, engagement data, and performance outcomes into one continuous cycle. The system becomes more effective over time by recognizing patterns, adapting recommendations, and learning from organizational behaviors.TIMESTAMPS0:00 - Intro and Opening Thoughts on AI at LT0:58 - What Questions Are Customers Asking about AI in HR Tech?02:03 - How is AI Embedded into Everything Absorb Does?04:07 - How Does AI Work in a Closed Loop System?06:00 - How Are Absorb Navigating The Changing Demands of Learning?08:22 - What Can Clients Expect From Absorb?10:41 - How is Technology Influencing Conversations around Solutions?12:44 - Dani’s ReflectionRESOURCES & LINKSAbsorb Software Official WebsiteLeslie Kelley on LinkedInCONNECT WITH REDTHREAD RESEARCHRedThread Research Official WebsiteRedThread Research on LinkedInDani Johnson on LinkedIn