Innovate or Stagnate: AI's Role in Pioneering R&D Initiatives

In this episode, the DAS crew discussed using AI for research and development (R&D) within organizations.

They covered defining R&D broadly, beyond just tech, to include things like consumer packaged goods. AI can help with market research, ideation, product design, and more.

Key points included:

• Using AI for rapid competitive analysis and identifying market gaps. Can quickly scrape competitor websites and data.


• Training customized AI models on internal data to safeguard IP and avoid public API limitations.


• Leveraging generative AI for creative ideation - design, branding, messaging, etc.


• Automating rote R&D tasks so staff can focus on innovation and strategy.


• Fostering internal communities of curiosity and change agents. AI hackathons and regular sharing of AI advancements.


• Getting quick wins with AI to build internal momentum. Start small and show value.


• Using AI to gather external suggestions from customers and partners.

Overall, the episode emphasized starting to use AI in small ways within R&D for tangible benefits. Key is building staff capabilities and an innovation culture vs just deploying technology.