The big unlearn: learning in the GenAI era

This chapter explores the critical role of organizational learning (OL) in maintaining a competitive edge in rapidly evolving technological landscapes. It begins by discussing the exponential pace of technological advancements and their impact on industries, emphasizing the necessity for organizations to adapt swiftly. The concept of the “self-designing organization” or learning organization, as defined by Peter Senge, is introduced, highlighting the dynamic tension between individual learning (IL) and OL. The chapter delves into the integration of OL principles in lean and agile practices, underscoring their importance in fostering innovation. The chapter then examines the transformative potential of Generative AI, positing it as a catalyst for a new industrial revolution. It discusses the dual-edged nature of AI in OL, balancing its ability to uncover insights with the risk of overreliance. The concept of the “expertise death spiral” is introduced, warning against the depletion of human knowledge assets. Finally, the chapter proposes a balanced approach to AI integration, advocating for the creation of a super subject matter expert (SSME) to enhance both low and high-skill workers' productivity, thereby fostering a sustainable OL environment.