Embedding AI into day-to-day operations

How structured training, talent upskilling and rapid deployment of Implement’s internal IM GPT operationalised generative AI across consulting practices.

Operationalising generative AI requires more than just new technology – it requires hands-on training, targeted upskilling and rapid deployment of custom AI tools. At Implement Consulting Group, we have developed and rolled out our own IM GPT, a secure, AI-powered tool, enabling us to integrate AI into daily workflows and drive efficiency and innovation across our consulting practices.

Introduction

Operationalising AI with IM GPT

The adoption of generative AI starts with strategy but truly comes to life when it is embedded into day-to-day operations. To make AI a seamless part of our work at Implement, we knew that we needed not only comprehensive training and upskilling but also the right tools.

In October 2023, we launched Project AIM at Implement; a community-based movement of internal AI champions driving the adoption of AI across all parts of Implement. To a large extent, the success of Project Aim was driven by the creation and deployment of IM GPT – our secure, internal AI tool designed to harness the power of OpenAI’s language models while ensuring data security.

IM GPT quickly became the cornerstone of our generative AI efforts, allowing our consultants to use AI safely and efficiently in their daily workflows.

This article explores how we embedded AI into our operations by combining technology with targeted training and talent development.

Creating IM GPT

Rapid deployment for daily use

IM GPT was developed as our secure internal connection to OpenAI’s language models, hosted in a secure European data centre. The tool started as a barebones solution built in the low-code framework Streamlit, allowing for rapid iteration and deployment.

In just four weeks, we went from having 20 testers to rolling out the tool globally.

The rapid development and deployment of IM GPT was critical to embedding AI into the day-to-day work of our consultants. Early updates focused on enhancing functionality, including the ability to switch between models, execute software commands and analyse images. Later iterations introduced an internal prompt marketplace, allowing consultants to share best practices and optimise their use of AI across different projects.

While the addition of knowledge bases has shown limited value in our context, maintaining strict control over the use and context of the model has proven most effective for our purposes. The focus is on ensuring that it remains a tool that enhances the consultants’ work rather than adding unnecessary complexity.

Today, IM GPT is in its third version, with version 3.1 on the horizon. Each update has brought new capabilities, ensuring that our AI tool evolves with the needs of our consultants.

Upskilling talent to build AI competencies

Operationalising AI required more than just technology – it required investment in our people. Instead of focusing primarily on external recruitment, our strategy emphasised upskilling and reskilling existing employees, especially as we saw that traditional consulting skills in areas such as strategy, process and industry-specific expertise could be enhanced by AI.

Through intensive internal training programmes, we empowered our consultants to integrate AI into their work. This was not just about teaching them how to use the tools – it was about helping them understand how AI could complement their existing expertise. With support and focus, our consultants quickly adapted, incorporating AI into their projects and delivering enhanced value to clients.

To ensure widespread adoption, Project AIM also offered an internal four-hour training programme that attracted over a thousand participants – nearly half of our workforce. We also launched a newsletter showcasing AI prompts and created an internal prompt marketplace. These initiatives provided continuous learning opportunities, ensuring that AI skills were not only acquired but also regularly applied and improved.

Integrating AI tools into daily workflows

The rollout of IM GPT was supported by ongoing efforts to integrate AI into our daily workflows. Our approach involved a combination of structured training and hands-on learning to ensure that AI became a natural part of the way we work.

As part of Project AIM, we launched newsletters to the organisation and internal forums where employees could share and discover new AI prompts. The internal prompt marketplace has become a valuable resource for consultants looking to optimise their use of IM GPT. These efforts helped bridge the gap between learning AI skills and applying them in real-world scenarios.

By embedding AI directly into the workflows of our consultants, we have made it easier for them to leverage its capabilities in their day-to-day work. From generating insights to automating routine processes, IM GPT has become an essential tool that enhances productivity and creativity.

Challenges in fostering a culture of AI adoption

Despite the success of IM GPT and our training programmes, fostering a culture of AI adoption has not been without its challenges. The biggest hurdle has been balancing focus and persistence among employees. While many are eager to engage with AI, the demands of day-to-day work can make it difficult to find time for experimentation and learning.

To address this, we have emphasised the importance of showcasing the value of AI at the right time. By hitting the right moments – when consultants are available and able to see how AI fits into their workflows – we have been able to maintain momentum and drive adoption. Persistence, timing and demonstrating clear benefits have been key to overcoming resistance and ensuring that AI becomes a core part of our operations.

Conclusion 

Operational success through IM GPT and targeted training

Operationalising AI at Implement has required a combination of rapid tool development, comprehensive training and targeted upskilling. The creation and deployment of IM GPT has played a central role in embedding AI into our workflows, allowing us to harness its power while maintaining control over its use.

For SMEs looking to operationalise AI, the key takeaway is clear: success comes from integrating AI into day-to-day work through custom tools, hands-on training and continuous learning. With the right combination of technology and talent development, AI can transform your operations and drive sustained innovation.