By Jay Snyder
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not replacing people; it tests how prepared we are to empower them. The real risk is not automation, but leaving talent behind without the necessary skills to thrive in an AI-driven world. Although 90% of global technology leaders are investing in Artificial Intelligence, according to research by Nash Squared/Harvey Nash, infrastructure alone will not transform a business. Technology without talent is merely potential waiting to be unlocked.
People before platforms – that's a new growth philosophy. Often, AI investments begin with platforms and models, while investments in people are treated as optional, postponed to "later." But "later" rarely comes. When companies automate without enabling growth, they create something ineffective: short-term cost savings at the expense of innovation and engagement.
Putting people at the center of technology investments is not optional. It's a growth strategy. Companies that prioritize talent foster curiosity, flexibility, and resilience. They provide employees with opportunities to learn, experiment, and use AI as a tool to solve problems, not as a substitute for human insight. Technology will always evolve, but companies that invest in their teams will stay ahead.
Reversing the dynamics of talent and partners
Today, competitive advantage is as much about collaboration as it is about innovation. A strong partner ecosystem accelerates transformation by driving advancements in cloud computing, application performance, and AI-powered insights.
Traditionally, technology companies seek partners for their expertise and market reach. Reverse that narrative. When you invest in your workforce, you create an environment that attracts partners. Instead of you knocking on their door, they will knock on yours. This doesn't happen overnight; it's built through consistent knowledge sharing, empowerment, and trust. Culture and talent naturally attract each other, and when partners see that your team is as strong as your technology, they want to be a part of that environment.
Leadership that transcends metrics.
Boardrooms focus on revenue, growth, and margins, but true leadership is about building lasting organizations. Vision, empathy, and commitment to people development should not be sacrificed for short-term gains.
Mentorship is fundamental to success. Especially inclusive mentorship, which ensures that everyone has access to guidance and growth. By supporting diverse talent, companies create stronger and more representative leadership pipelines. Innovation and resilience become part of the company's DNA when the development of inclusive leadership is prioritized. I know I wouldn't be where I am without the mentors who guided me, and now, intentionally and consciously, I give back to the next generation, believing that they, in turn, will do the same.
Leaders who only think about the next quarter miss the chance to help shape the next generation. Investing in growth and mentorship creates a ripple effect: engaged employees, productive teams, and organizations that thrive even in times of uncertainty.
Being a leader isn't just about hitting numbers. It starts with people and opportunities. Even the most advanced technology won't yield results if skills, culture, and mentorship are ignored. Companies that prioritize people build stronger partnerships, attract top talent, and develop leaders capable of navigating unpredictability.
So ask yourself: are you only investing in technology, or are you also investing in the people who make it meaningful?
*Jay Snyder é Vice-Presidente Sênior de Parcerias e Alianças da Dynatrace
Notice: The opinion presented in this article is the responsibility of its author and not of ABES - Brazilian Association of Software Companies
