AI Week at Dog Consultancy 
  
Last week, we took our Dog Consultancy team into an AI deep-dive and without a doubt, we all learned something unexpected. We came together for a series of sessions exploring how AI can reshape the way we work, help our clients, and create some real innovation in the business. 
  
We examined how multiple AI tools like ChatGPT, DALL·E, Fathom and other generative AI solutions are already transforming industries. Like everyone else, ChatGPT is something we’ve all been using to speed up competitor research and global insights, but we also got a taste of what’s going to happen next with Agentic AI, and the implications it may have. We also learned that around 80% of companies are running AI with no controls – when staff are using their own personal accounts to ask questions and create content. It’s called shadow AI, and it comes with huge issues concerning what data’s being shared and the hidden implications for clients. It could create issues from data leaks to lack of continuity further down the line. Similarly, we heard that AI can sometimes suffer ‘hallucinations’ that can lead to responses being misleading or damaging if not properly managed.  
  
Currently, we use some AI tools at Dog, all to try and leverage them to make efficiencies and make the most of our resources. And the conversation turned to how we can employ AI responsibly within our agency – from automating repetitive tasks with solutions like automation platforms or AI-driven data analysis tools, to enhancing client insights – the potential is enormous. We shared ideas about how to harness AI, like ChatGPT for content drafting or predictive analytics to inform strategy, while remaining vigilant about inaccuracies and hallucinations. That’s why it seemed obvious that establishing clear policies and oversight is critical to ensure AI is used well and reliably. 
  
To fully benefit, it’s crucial to develop a clear strategy and governance around AI, defining when, how, and where these tools are used, and establishing rules to prevent misuse, including unchecked reliance on AI outputs. 
  
A key partner in our journey is Education Evolved, an expert team in AI consulting. Their support has been instrumental in shaping our approach, especially regarding our client consultancy service. Under the umbrella of the Dog Collective, their expertise helps us guide clients in deploying AI responsibly and effectively, avoiding pitfalls. 
  
The week culminated in an event where we shared with a select group of our clients what we’ve discovered and how we can help them move forward with AI. Dog has always been at the forefront of technological advancement and with AI, we’re offering support and consultancy to help our clients build exciting and more considered AI strategies.

If you’re interested in exploring how AI can improve your operations, we’d love to help. 

Thanks to everyone who participated – your curiosity and insight made this week truly special. Let’s shape what’s next.