AI and OD: A conversation between Ed Shrager and Jesse Segers

Published on February 22, 2025

AI and OD

A conversation between Ed Shrager and Jesse Segers

Main points discussed:

1. AI and OD as Complementary Fields – Ed and Jesse discuss how AI and OD (Organization Development) are deeply connected. They highlight that OD professionals, who are skilled in questioning, iteration, and dialogue, are well-placed to leverage AI effectively. AI can enhance OD work by providing better insights, structuring information, and facilitating change processes.

2. Survey Findings on AI Adoption in OD – Jesse shares insights from a study on AI adoption among OD professionals. The study categorized OD practitioners into three groups:

  • Tech-Savvy OD Humanists (20%) – Cautious about AI, skeptical of its ability to replace human interactions.
  • Pragmatic OD-AI Integrators (35%) – Use AI as a tool to enhance efficiency in tasks like planning, content creation, and strategy development.
  • AI-Forward OD Innovators (46%) – Most open to AI, especially for organizational performance tracking, sentiment analysis, and change management.

3. AI’s Role in Learning and Knowledge Sharing – AI is helping students and professionals learn more effectively by summarizing lectures, generating study materials, and enhancing written communication. Jesse shares an example of students using AI to turn lecture slides into a podcast, making studying more engaging and accessible.

4. Ethical Concerns and Human Oversight – They discuss the importance of transparency, fairness, and human oversight in AI applications. AI should support rather than replace human judgment. They reference Ethan Mollick’s book Co-Intelligence, emphasizing principles such as treating AI as a collaborator and always maintaining human oversight.

5. The Future of AI in OD – Both express a desire for OD professionals to engage more deeply with AI to influence its ethical and effective use. Jesse hopes AI will continue to increase joy, creativity, and meaningful human interactions rather than just automating mundane tasks. Ed emphasizes the importance of OD professionals staying updated on AI to shape how it impacts organizations.

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