Applied AI involves using artificial intelligence to solve real-world problems in specific contexts. It involves integrating technological tools into processes that deliver real value to businesses, education or public services. For example, through the workshops for SMEs that I have facilitated with the School of Industrial Organisation, I have witnessed the revolution that using ChatGPT can bring to a small business – whether it’s creating messages to finalise quotes, developing customer loyalty programmes or simply designing images with Nano Banana to create social media advertising campaigns.
According to the MIT Sloan Management Review (2023), the key to applied AI lies in combining technological development with clear and measurable organisational objectives. For example, a company can use AI to analyse large volumes of data and improve decision-making, whilst a teacher can use it to tailor the curriculum individually to each of their pupils. In fact, when AI is applied correctly, it allows for the automation of repetitive tasks (such as report writing or the creation of administrative reports) and frees up time for more strategic activities. That is why, in the coming years, we will see how applied AI becomes a key element for organisational and educational innovation, as highlighted by the World Economic Forum (2024) in its “Future of Jobs Report”.
What has made artificial intelligence the talk of the town?
Artificial intelligence is currently booming because it has become accessible to everyone. For decades, it was a technology reserved for laboratories and specialists, but today it can be used simply through natural language, by typing in a chat or via a voice command. According to Stanford University’s AI Index Report 2024, mass access to generative AI systems via conversational interfaces such as ChatGPT or Copilot has been the greatest catalyst for adoption in the history of modern AI. This means that any professional can interact with advanced systems without the need for programming. In fact, AI tools are already part of everyday work in many sectors, from communication to data analysis. For example, businesses and teachers use intelligent assistants to generate content, analyse information or improve their productivity.
What are the pillars of successful AI implementation in organisations and education?
Applied AI rests on three fundamental pillars: clear use cases, practical training and a digital culture based on trust. Firstly, it is essential to identify specific situations where AI can deliver real value and improve existing processes. Furthermore, people need to learn how to use these tools within their own professional or educational context.
Therefore, beyond the technology itself, the real change lies in developing an organisational culture open to continuous learning and the responsible use of data, as highlighted in the European Commission’s principles of ethical AI.
What examples of AI applications are making a difference?
Today, there are numerous examples of artificial intelligence applications that are already making an impact in business, education and creativity. In the business world, AI enables the analysis of large volumes of data, the automation of processes and tasks, and the personalisation of customer relationships. According to McKinsey Global Institute (2023), companies that integrate generative AI have increased their productivity by up to 40% in areas such as marketing and customer service.
In education, AI is driving the development of digital tutors that help students learn at their own pace; by 2025, NotebookLM (a free tool from Google) has revolutionised the way large amounts of information are managed, organised and helped students to assimilate it through mind maps, quizzes, podcast creation or summary videos
What advantages does applied AI offer compared to other technological approaches?
One of the main advantages of artificial intelligence is that it expands people’s capabilities, regardless of their technical level. The OECD (2025) highlights that AI is the technology with the greatest democratising potential, as it enables people without advanced knowledge to perform complex tasks using natural language. At the same time, it allows analysts and expert teams to work with more data and scenarios in less time.
What role does training play in this new paradigm?
Training is one of the most important elements for harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence. UNESCO (2024) and the World Economic Forum (2025) agree that the digital skills gap is one of the greatest current challenges to the equitable adoption of AI. In this regard, it is essential to help professionals and students understand how to use it in a practical and responsible manner. An increasingly valued skill is the ability to formulate good questions — so-called ‘prompt literacy’ — which is key to obtaining relevant results. In this context, training in digital skills and critical thinking will be decisive.
What skills will be key in the age of artificial intelligence?
Interestingly, in an increasingly digital environment, human skills are becoming even more valuable. According to the World Economic Forum (2025), the skills we will need most are critical thinking, complex problem-solving and creativity. These ‘power skills’ enable us to interpret the data generated by technology and apply it ethically. Furthermore, collaboration and empathy will remain essential for working in diverse environments. Ultimately, the combination of artificial intelligence and human capabilities will define the productivity and innovation of the future.
What trends will shape the coming years in the relationship between humans and technology?
My prediction is that in the coming years we will see a natural integration between people, AI and digital systems. According to Gartner (2025), intelligent assistants will evolve into “autonomous agents” capable of executing complete tasks and coordinating processes continuously. In education, the OECD (2024) anticipates an expansion of AI-driven adaptive learning models, where each student progresses at their own pace and in their own style. In this context, organisations that foster a culture of continuous learning will be better prepared to capitalise on the opportunities presented by this technological transformation. Furthermore, the capacity for learnability — that is, the willingness and ability to learn constantly and autonomously in the face of new challenges and technologies — is establishing itself, according to the World Economic Forum (2025), as the most important skill of the present and the future. Being able to learn, unlearn and relearn will be what sets apart the individuals and organisations capable of evolving in this new digital era.
