AI + ML Enough with the AI FOMO, go slow-mo, says Domo CDO
Assess your AI projects for clear business value and avoid tokenmaxxing.
Evaluate AI initiatives for business value, start with simple automations, and avoid tokenmaxxing.
Summary
Chris Willis, Domo’s chief design officer, argues that the current AI hype is driven by fear‑based marketing rather than real value. He cites the phenomenon of "tokenmaxxing," where companies buy large amounts of tokens to showcase activity without delivering tangible outcomes. Willis stresses that AI should be a tool that supports existing business processes, not a silver bullet that replaces them. He recommends starting with simple, spreadsheet‑based automations that surface anomalies for human review, as demonstrated in a pilot that flagged invoice discrepancies. The article warns that many proof‑of‑concept projects lack durability, trust, and clear ROI, citing Klarna’s failed chatbot replacement as an example. Willis predicts that CFOs will soon scrutinize AI budgets more closely, demanding measurable gains. He calls for a shift from impatience to strategic, business‑first AI adoption.
The piece underscores the need for clear specifications and realistic expectations when integrating large language models. It highlights the risk of treating AI as a solution rather than a tool, which can lead to costly, ineffective pilots. Willis’s advice centers on aligning AI initiatives with concrete business outcomes and ensuring human judgment remains integral to decision‑making.
Key changes
- Domo CDO criticizes AI hype and fear marketing.
- Highlights tokenmaxxing trend of buying tokens to show activity.
- Emphasizes starting with simple process automation tied to spreadsheets.
- Warns that AI should be a tool, not a solution.
- Notes many POCs lack durability and trust.
- Suggests focusing on human judgment and verification.
- Mentions Klarna’s failed chatbot replacement.
- Predicts CFO scrutiny over AI spend.