Navigating AI's Impact on Creative Services: Insights from Deltek's Gen AI Playbook Launch

Image courtesy of Deltek

Last week, I joined a panel of industry leaders for the launch of “The C-Suite's Playbook on Gen AI Adoption,” a new framework from AI strategist Walter Pasquarelli and Deltek, the project-based ERP solutions company.

Pasquarelli's playbook helps consultancies of all types (including my own) determine their AI-readiness, without overcomplicating the assessment. I enjoyed contributing to the project's research phase, where I shared my own experiences with AI risk, adoption, and vendor sourcing and procurement.

“My clients are wrestling with how to approach Generative AI without compromising their expertise, or their creative DNA or rushing into risky investments... or they might just lack confidence that there’s a business model in it for them.”

During the launch panel discussion, I focused my points on what Gen AI means specifically for creative services businesses - from the rapidly evolving business models to balancing automation with human creativity. I would describe the new workforce need as "more piloting and less wing flapping."

The timing is significant. Creative services leaders are being bombarded with contradictory advice about AI. The evangelists insist you must transform everything immediately. The skeptics warn that rushing toward AI will destroy your creative soul. Meanwhile, your clients are asking what your AI strategy is, your teams are experimenting with tools behind the scenes, and your feed is full of predictions about the death of traditional business models.

For creative services leaders weighing their own AI strategy, both the playbook and webinar recording offer practical frameworks for assessment and action.

You can access the playbook and watch the full panel discussion (registration required for both).