Cisco Systems, established over four decades ago, has been undergoing such a transformation across every facet of its operations over the last three years. This encompasses changing "how we develop products, how our products are utilized by clients, and how tasks are accomplished internally," stated Jeetu Patel, president and chief product officer of Cisco.

Despite being one of the most technologically advanced companies globally, Patel acknowledged during a recent episode of Michael Krigsman’s CXOTalk that this endeavor faces challenges. "It's a cultural shift. There's a certain level of skepticism involved."

Nevertheless, "If you look at us a year and a half or two years ago, no one would have described Cisco as AI-first," he noted.

A common obstacle businesses face is "people fearing AI, thinking, 'Hey, AI will take my job, so I won't bother using it,'" Patel added. "I believe it's less about AI replacing your job and more about someone excelling with AI in their role potentially taking yours."

In essence, "The skill required to effectively integrate AI into everything you do will be crucial," he said. "We've always believed there will only be two types of companies: those adept at using AI and those struggling to stay relevant."

Three vital elements are essential in fostering an AI-first culture, Patel outlined:

• Establish a culture where AI-first is the norm.
• Equip employees with the appropriate tools and training to ensure AI adoption is expected.
• Ensure AI-first isn't merely optional but a standard for future work practices.

Customers are integral to this AI-first cultural shift. "One challenge we face is the rapid pace of change; conveying this to our customers and helping them adapt is difficult," Patel mentioned. "I don't think we've fully resolved this yet."

Customers perceive Cisco as it was over three years ago, "and frankly, it's a completely different entity now than it once was," he continued. "I feel there's so much happening constantly that you must simplify it to a few key points that resonate."

For instance, AI is expediting Cisco's response to support tickets and reducing operational expenses. In sales, AI will streamline sales meetings and legal/accounting processes related to sales. "These areas will heavily rely on AI, and I believe the sales process will significantly evolve over the next few years. You won't enter discussions unprepared because AI can swiftly prepare you on what needs to occur."

For both newcomers to the workforce and current employees, it's crucial not to approach AI with fear, Patel emphasized. "Operate from a perspective of exploring possibilities and opportunities. I encourage adopting a mindset that nothing should deter us from curiosity regarding how we can leverage AI. As this technology becomes simpler, technical expertise won't hinder its application."

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