Topic: “Integrating AI into Organizations without Layoffs”
Thursday, July 16th, 2026 at 10:00 am to 11:30 am Pacific time.
Please join us at the July 2026 Virtual Water Cooler for an ongoing conversation about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on people and work. We just read a New York Times article focused on how one company is integrating AI into organizations in ways that enhance both the work that is being done and the people doing that work. (“Can You Embrace A.I. Without Layoffs? This Company Says It’s Trying”. NYT, July 2, 2026). You’ll find the article here.
As we said last month, we too often hear that AI will replace humans, taking over the work they now do. But Germany’s SAP seems to be doing something different as AI is integrated into their work environment (as well as the soccer team they sponsor!). So, this month let’s look at alternatives to replacing people with AI and talk about how we might support people and enhance their work without cutting the workforce. Let’s use the article about SAP as our jumping off point for discussion.
- What do you think about the SAP approach to AI?
- What could this mean for the future of work?
- Are there other new models emerging for integrating AI without cutting people (like the SAP approach)? What are they and how are they working?
- What are the benefits for organizations in such approaches?
- How do we get leaders to be thoughtful, deliberate, & intentional about designing with both people and AI in mind?
Please join us on Thursday, July 16th, 2026 at 10:00am (Pacific Daylight Time) for another conversation about people and organizations.
Bring your ideas and questions, and prepare to share your thoughts and experiences in another stimulating discussion with friends and colleagues.
We are looking forward to seeing you there.
