“Por qué las empresas fracasan en adoptar la IA: De la Data a la Acción” (Why Companies Fail to Adopt AI: From Data to Action) was the title of the discussion organized by the Business School of Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, led by Freddy Coronado, Managing Partner of Strategy Business at SYM and UAI professor, alongside Alejandro Inzunza, Managing Partner at Symnetics and Co-founder of Pharu Analytics, this past January. Our executives explored the key challenges and opportunities organizations face in implementing artificial intelligence (AI) as a strategic tool.

During the talk, the experts shared their insights on how companies can overcome cultural and organizational barriers that limit AI’s impact. Both emphasized that the key is not just the technology itself but also the development of clear strategies, the transformation of organizational culture, and the upskilling of human talent to enable the effective use of these tools.

Freddy Coronado highlighted that AI alone does not generate value. “What is truly transformative is an organization’s ability to connect data with strategic questions that guide decision-making. This means shifting from simply accumulating data to turning it into strategic action,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Alejandro Inzunza pointed out that “the great AI revolution will not be about replacing people, but rather about how companies ensure that people adopt these tools effectively. That will be the real competitive advantage in the coming years.”

Here are some key lessons from the discussion:

• Strategic Formulation: Companies must focus on identifying key questions that align technology with organizational goals. Without a clear purpose, AI loses its transformative potential.
• Cultural Change: Beyond implementing technology, organizations need to break internal barriers, foster collaboration, and promote a culture of continuous learning.
• AI at the Service of Strategy: Artificial intelligence should be seen as a tool that enhances informed decision-making and responds to today’s market challenges.

The event brought together professionals from various industries, students, and leaders interested in exploring how AI can become a driver of not only technological but also strategic and cultural innovation. The discussions sparked engagement with the audience, highlighting the current needs of businesses and strategies for a future where artificial intelligence will play a crucial role.

Through this discussion, Symnetics and Pharu Analytics reaffirm their commitment to generating knowledge and providing strategic guidance to navigate the challenges of digital transformation. By focusing on people, strategy, and technology, both organizations continue to position themselves as leaders in innovation and organizational management.