AI is more than a tool. It’s a catalyst for what humans can achieve.

In this episode of the AI First Podcast, Jon Herstein, Chief Customer Officer at Box, sits down with Jake McCoy, Chief Operating Officer at RWS Global, to discuss how leveraging AI with purpose can unlock new efficiencies, boost creativity, and elevate human performance across enterprises. From streamlining operations to enhancing creative processes, Jake shares the lessons and principles that guide RWS in turning AI into a true business enabler.

Key moments:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:22) Jake McCoy's background and role at RWS Global

(04:43) The potential of AI in improving operations and enabling creativity at RWS

(05:46) The necessity of AI in large-scale operations to ensure consistency and mitigate risk

(07:11) Starting with AI in operations to eliminate friction before tackling creativity

(08:22) Addressing challenges in managing decades unstructured content

(09:44) How AI can assist with compliance checks in the cruise industry

(12:08) The importance of maintaining human oversight in AI-assisted processes

(16:25) Why clear communication and developing policies around AI usage is vital

(21:40) How business teams contribute to improving operational workflows through AI

(23:53) "AI for everyone" approach and how to foster broader adoption within the company

(26:13) Leadership responsibility in driving AI integration and maintaining trust

(28:24) Governance around AI tools: shared access and authority to ensure proper use

(30:15) Importance of incorporating guardrails into AI workflows to avoid mistakes

(34:37) Data readiness and the importance of getting the content structure and hygiene right before applying AI

(35:52) Lessons learned about AI implementation and the need to earn the right to automate

(39:44) The future of AI in content management and the implications for industries

(47:34) The role of experiences in evaluating AI impact on both employees and clients

(48:44) Change management tips: building a safe environment for AI adoption across the business