With Pre-Built Connectors to Core Systems, Industry Platforms Should Drive Faster AI Impact

Welcome to this AI Agent & Copilot Podcast, where we analyze the opportunities, impact, and outcomes that are possible with AI.

In this episode, I speak with Kenny Mullican, CIO of the manufacturing firm Paragon Films, about the recent industry AI push by Google Cloud — initially focused on financial services and retail — as well as the larger implications of industry-specific AI use cases

Highlights

Google’s Vertical Industry Focus and Industry-Specific AI Platforms (01:39)

Mullican notes that AI models are no longer a differentiator for software vendors. He notes that other companies including Anthropic and OpenAI have already released industry-specific AI platforms.

The value of out-of-the-box connectors to industry-specific applications and data sources is highlighted. Having pre-built connectors for industries like legal and finance can significantly reduce the time and effort required to make AI useful, especially when compared to the challenges of building these connectors in-house.

Microsoft and AI for Manufacturing (09:00)

Mullican notes that Microsoft has been building AI capabilities into its manufacturing software, such as Dynamics 365 and Business Central. Microsoft has developed specific agents for logistics and purchasing, which are valuable for their operations. SAP and Oracle are discussed, and it’s expected they will continue to focus on embedding AI capabilities into existing applications.

Customer Involvement and Need for Partners (10:20)

Google Cloud placed strong emphasis on customer involvement in the development of its vertical platforms. Mullican notes the importance of meeting customers where they are but notes that mid-market companies may face challenges in scaling these solutions. The discussion shifts to the role of partners in helping mid-market companies deploy AI systems. Mullican highlights the importance of partners who understand the specific needs of the manufacturing industry and can supplement in-house resources.

Paragon Films’ AI Deployment Strategy (14:10)

When it comes to deploying industry-specific AI use case, Mullican explains that while some projects are still in the pilot phase, others are fully operational and being used in production — the latter have been built using a bottom-up approach. He describes the shift from traditional IT projects to a more decentralized approach where power users build AI solutions themselves. He notes the importance of IT’s role in providing the necessary resources and removing roadblocks for these user-driven AI projects.

More Kenny Mullican Insights:

• Economics Dictate Targeted Use of AI Agents
• How AI Frees Leaders to Think Differently About System Building
• Governed Diversity Means Supporting a Portfolio of Specialized AI Tools
• How AI ‘Collapses the Feedback Loop’ in Software Development

Community Summit North America is the largest independent innovation, education, and training event for Microsoft business applications delivered by Expert Users, Microsoft Leaders, MVPs, and Partners. Register now to attend Community Summit in Nashville, TN from October 11-15.