Why most companies are getting AI wrong and how to build a culture that actually adapts

Coding Chats episode 69 - John Crickett and Sairam Sundaresan discuss the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for learning, software development, and organizational culture. Sairam emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between technical and business perspectives on AI, advocating for a hands-on approach to learning. They explore the hype surrounding AI, particularly large language models (LLMs), and the need for a cultural transformation within organizations to effectively adopt AI technologies. The discussion also touches on the future of software engineering in an AI-driven world, highlighting the blurred lines between roles and the necessity for continuous learning and adaptation.Chapters00:00 Bridging the Gap: Understanding AI for Everyone03:44 Learning AI: A Practical Approach06:29 The Evolution of AI: From Hype to Reality09:33 Generative AI: The Current Landscape and Future Directions12:35 Transformative Use Cases: Beyond Basic Applications15:23 The Art of Questioning: Engaging with AI Effectively18:36 Navigating Large Codebases: AI as a Tool for Engineers21:24 Writing and Coding: Learning from the Masters27:42 Harnessing Subagents for Efficiency29:48 Bridging the Gap Between Business and Tech31:35 Cultural Transformation in AI Adoption34:22 Understanding AI Fundamentals for Better Collaboration36:11 The People Problem in AI Implementation39:26 Evolving Roles in Software Engineering42:26 The Resurgence of Software Engineering44:37 Leading an AI-First Organization49:16 Learning by Doing in AI52:03 Navigating the Landscape of AI Research and Publications54:05 Exploring Related ContentSairam's Links:Book- AI for the Rest of Us:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F29THNLTSubstack Gradient Ascent: https://newsletter.artofsaience.comJohn's Links:John's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johncrickett/John’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@johncrickettJohn's Twitter: https://x.com/johncrickettJohn's Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/johncrickett.bsky.socialCheck out John's software engineering related newsletters: Coding Challenges: https://codingchallenges.substack.com/ which shares real-world project ideas that you can use to level up your coding skills.Developing Skills: https://read.developingskills.fyi/ covering everything from system design to soft skills, helping them progress their career from junior to staff+ or for those that want onto a management track.TakeawaysAI is essential for modern products and services.Bridging the gap between business and engineering is crucial.Learning AI requires a hands-on approach, not just theory.Cultural transformation is necessary for successful AI adoption.Understanding the basics of AI is vital for all roles.The hype around AI often overshadows other important areas.Software engineering is evolving with AI technologies.AI tools can enhance productivity but require thoughtful use.Continuous learning is key in the fast-paced AI landscape.The roles within organizations are becoming more integrated.