Chief Information Officers (CIOs) must actively participate in artificial intelligence (AI) experimentation, rather than simply governing its implementation, according to Rani Johnson, a technology leader at Workday. In a statement released December 27, 2025, Johnson argued that a hands-on approach is crucial for CIOs to effectively navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and harness its potential for enterprise innovation.
Johnson emphasized that the pressure to adopt AI is immense, but the path forward requires more than just theoretical oversight. She believes that real impact stems from providing access to AI tools, fostering trust in the technology, and committing to practical learning experiences. "The greatest risk isn't getting it wrong; it's waiting for a perfect AI strategy while the world races ahead," Johnson stated.
Drawing from her own experiences, Johnson recounted early experiments with expert systems that ultimately led to a venture focused on online clothing selection. Despite initial skepticism from investors, this experience taught her the importance of embracing new technologies despite resistance. "New technologies are often met with resistance which, in hindsight, is usually shortsighted," Johnson explained.
The current wave of AI development is characterized by sophisticated algorithms and machine learning models capable of automating complex tasks, analyzing vast datasets, and generating creative content. However, these advancements also raise concerns about job displacement, algorithmic bias, and the ethical implications of autonomous systems. CIOs, therefore, play a critical role in ensuring that AI is deployed responsibly and in alignment with organizational values.
Industry analysts agree that CIOs need to be proactive in exploring AI's capabilities. By actively experimenting with AI tools and platforms, CIOs can gain a deeper understanding of their potential benefits and limitations. This hands-on experience allows them to make informed decisions about AI investments, identify opportunities for innovation, and mitigate potential risks.
The next phase of AI development is expected to focus on explainable AI (XAI), which aims to make AI decision-making processes more transparent and understandable. This will be crucial for building trust in AI systems and ensuring accountability. As AI continues to evolve, CIOs who embrace experimentation and learning will be best positioned to lead their organizations into the future.
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