No More Labels, Just Great Tech
We’re in one of the most exciting periods our industry has ever seen when it comes to adopting and building new technology. Nearly every conference or webinar showcases another wave of innovative ideas and solutions.
But as this excitement grows, I think it’s time we get back to the center of why we use technology in the first place, not the labels attached to it. Let me explain.
The Obsession with Labels
I hear the same questions over and over:
- Is this AI?
- Is this built on blockchain?
- Do you use machine learning or deep learning?
- Is this agentic AI?
- Is this generative AI?
- Is this natural language processing?
The questions themselves aren’t the issue. What’s concerning is what’s behind them.
Too often, we’re putting more emphasis on what kind of technology something is rather than what problem it’s designed to solve.
From Problem-Solving to Buzzword-Chasing
Fifteen years ago, we used technology to solve specific problems that were hurting our organizations. Today, we often evaluate solutions based on the type of technology involved.
The industry has entered a phase of “If it’s AI, it’s for me,” driven by whatever the latest headline or press release says. The result is a growing disconnect between the capabilities of technology and the actual needs of our businesses.
Ask Better Questions
As someone who values transparency, I believe we should ask questions that focus on the solution, not just the tech stack behind it. For example:
- Will my customers care that we’re using this technology?
- Will my team see real value in adopting it?
- Does this technology help us deliver more value to stakeholders?
- Does it solve a real problem for our customers?
When your technology strategy shifts from “Are we using AI?” to “Are we solving problems?” you’ll start evaluating solutions in a completely different way.
Get Back to Solving Problems
So I want to encourage you to stop worrying about the labels. Stop chasing the next press release or funding announcement.
Let’s get back to solving real problems, not just buying technology.
