The Role of CLOs in the AI Epoch

With changing workforce demographics, in other words, with millennials and generation Z all set to rule the workforces, learning and development have become an essential part of today’s organizations since it is the topmost demand of these new members of the labor force. This is has given birth to a new position referred to as the Chief Learning Officer.

Though, training and development programs were always around for enhancing the skills and knowledge of the employees and this responsibility was handled by the human resources practitioners of the company. But, to take this function one notch above, the CLO role was introduced to manage solely the learning needs of the personnel.

A factor that backed this decision was the rise of AI since there was a growing need of a person to guide the organization set foot in the new technological age. There is a list of three main things that CLO must keep in mind when leading the learning and development initiative in the era of AI.

The Merger of AI with Learning and Development

Business leaders have deduced the fact that employee engagement is an essential component in the success of an organization which has led them to conceive new roles in the C-suite to undertake major HR functions. From the Chief Human Resources Officer to the Chief Learning Officer, all the newcomers of the C-suite are wearing multiple hats while leading a revolution in the workplace. These roles are gaining unparalleled significant since they are the ones who will direct the workforces into the new phase of digital transformation which is characterized by the rise of autonomous technologies that are still alien to many non-tech members of the workplace.

3 Things CLOs must remember in the Age of AI

1. CLOs have to welcome cutting-edge technology

It was not very long ago when AI became such an inevitable part of the business realm. Hence, its implementation is still in the phase of infancy and is prone to unpredictability and risks. So, today’s CLO has to pinpoint the technologies that are capable of bringing success to the organization along with ensuring that the L&D programs based on AI can entice long term benefits for the workforce.

2. CLOs must act as digital preachers

The organizations that are progressive in their industry have appointed Chief Data Officers and Chief Information Officers. In scenarios like these, Chief Learning Officers are typically expected to contrive operational strategies keeping themselves away from digital transformation. But, with artificial intelligence influencing each level of Learning & Development, these leaders have no option but to be aware of their role in the current aeon of technological disruption.

3. Firmly establishing CLO in the organizational structure

CLOs are not merely a component of the HR machinery. They are the cog that equips every employee with the contemporary tools required to face the growing challenges of the digital era. They act as a compass that directs the workforce in the correct direction.