Business Value First: How Swiss Post Leads AI Without Chasing Trends

Shownotes

What does a business-first approach to data and AI look like inside Swiss Post? Olya Nikolaeva shares her perspective on platforms, collaboration and organizational change. Topics include: - Starting with business problems and use cases before selecting technologies or designing a platform roadmap. - Connecting central platform teams, embedded business IT and business departments through shared projects. - Using AI to bridge implementation skill gaps while placing greater emphasis on conceptual thinking, clear requirements and code reviews. - Adapting strategies and project teams to faster development cycles, including Olya’s push for pilots that demonstrate initial value within two to four weeks. - Rethinking separate data and AI roles, formal job definitions and career paths. - Building context for machines and humans across different enterprise systems, and deciding what to connect or harmonize first. Olya’s closing priorities: focus on business value, collaborate across organizational boundaries and support people through changing roles.