Pranay Rajgarhia On Transforming the IT Industry with Generative AI

My decision was driven by my admiration for Professor Moran Cerf. His background as a neuroscientist, coupled with his extensive knowledge of AI, was a major attraction. Previously, I had taken an online AI program that provided a solid foundation in technical and business case planning but didn’t answer the "Why" behind the AI buzz versus reality. Additionally, I wanted to understand the CEO’s perspective on AI, and this program filled that gap perfectly.

The program exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend it to all leaders wanting to stay relevant in the AI landscape. The diverse group of faculty and speakers, the global representation of attendees, the one-on-one sessions, and a company visit highlighting different approaches made the program transformative. It equipped me with the knowledge and insights to navigate the complex world of AI, preparing me for both today and tomorrow.

The insights from Moran, Yuri, and Sandra have profoundly impacted my perspective on AI. They emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in CEO thinking, highlighting that traditional models can’t provide the necessary KPIs for AI. New models, including ethical considerations and regulations, must be developed.

Two surprises validated Columbia Business School’s prestige: the one-on-one sessions and small group discussions. The personal consultation, particularly, was unexpected and impactful. Discussing day-to-day work solutions with Professor Yuri Levin and participating in a group discussion with Amir Orad generated many new ideas and emphasized the magnitude of AI.

The diversity of the participants, the quality of the speakers, and the comprehensiveness of the topics. Learning from authorities like Professor Cerf, Levin, Sandra Matz, Amir Orad, and Omar Besbes shed light on the rapid evolution within the industry. The distinction between System 1 and System 2 thinking in AI, particularly, resonated with me, highlighting the irreplaceable nature of System 1 and the potential obsolescence of System 2 in the age of AI.

The networking opportunities were tremendous. I interacted with individuals from countries like Colombia, Albania, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and locals from New York. The diverse perspectives and leadership styles contributed significantly to my learning and personal growth. I’ve fostered strong bonds with my cohort members and faculty, feeling comfortable reaching out to them for assistance or to discuss ideas.

The outings were highly beneficial. They allowed me to compare how two leading organizations approach AI differently. One used a traditional approach, while the other led the way with new KPIs. This comparison helped me understand the pros and cons of each approach, which I can apply in my work. It was one of the highlights of the program.

These sessions were a pleasant surprise, as they are not the norm in executive programs. They helped me research solutions to challenging business problems and generated new ideas I can implement immediately. I appreciated this aspect of the program as much as everything else.

Absolutely, the program has already made a difference. During the program, my partners and I evaluated a startup, and the insights from the program helped us better assess and guide it. In my work on digital transformation, I frequently meet with founders, CEOs, and CIOs. This program will change the nature and intensity of my conversations with them and help them think differently about AI and its impact.

I am better prepared to lead and evaluate innovation in this field. The only area where I need more knowledge is the evolution of financial models for AI projects.