By Dr. George J. Mclean, MPA, DBA, PTMP:
In a world where generative AI tools have become so prevalent, they now serve a multitude of purposes, from writing emails to setting reminders to creating presentations. Yet a concerning and growing trend has emerged among organizations both large and small. Instead of prioritizing employee development, many have become dangerously obsessed with leveraging AI as a replacement rather than a supplement for their human capital workforce.
This is where it becomes alarming at the organizational level, and why we must raise awareness before it spirals out of control. Employee development and generative AI are two distinct tools that serve very different purposes in our daily operations. Too often, I meet with leaders who say, “I’ll just have AI do it,” or “We can let ChatGPT come up with something,” when discussing new ideas or projects. The first question that comes to my mind is simple: Do you have anyone on staff who can actually move this project forward?
Using AI is valuable, but eventually you will hit a roadblock, and that is where projects stall. More importantly, where is your next generation of talent coming from? Over reliance on AI breeds stagnation in the workforce, erodes institutional knowledge, and risks leaving organizations without the human capacity to innovate, adapt, and lead.
The solution is not to reject AI but to use it responsibly. Instead of relying solely on AI, I suggest you exploit it through a simple framework:
Integrate: Use AI to streamline routine, low-value tasks such as scheduling, document drafting, or data summarization.
Invest: Reinvest the time and cost savings from AI into employee development programs.
Innovate: Encourage teams to co-create with AI rather than outsource entirely to it.
Leaders who strike this balance will future-proof their organizations while empowering the workforce that drives lasting success.
Dr. George J. Mclean, MPA, DBA, PTMP, is the Senior Operations and Data Insights Manager for Miami Parking Authority. George can be reached at gmclean@miamiparking.com.
Forum Question: How can organizations ensure their next generation of leaders is prepared in an AI-saturated environment?