In an era where digital transformation is key, the Artificial Intelligence Design Sprint and Foundation Program, a joint effort between the Financial Times (FT) and Google, is a milestone. This action, which took place on November 15 in London, is a benchmark for innovation and defining strategic choices in the publishing industry.
In the context of this era of digital evolution, Proto Thema took part in the Artificial Intelligence Design Sprint and Foundation Program. Proto Thema’s partnership with Google and FT Strategies aims to improve user experience by offering comprehensive news coverage and developing innovative solutions for advertisers and publishers. Through this partnership, Proto Thema leverages the capabilities of artificial intelligence to offer a top-notch informational experience to its users.
“Through the Google News Initiative (GNI), we collaborate with the news industry in creating, testing and implementing new ways to reach readers in the digital age. We will continue to collaborate with industry experts such as FT Strategies to deliver programs that accelerate publisher’s digital journeys using AI and other advances in technology. Congratulations to ProtoThema and all other publishers who took their innovative ideas further by participating in the London AI Sprint!” – Camila Samilian, News Partnerships Manager, Google
Meeting of know-how and innovation
The Google News Initiative and FT Strategies have partnered for the first AI Design Sprint, a program under GNI’s (Google News Initiative) Digital Growth Program. The aim was to support publishers in the development of their digital business. The AI Design Sprint is one of many modules in the program, including workshops and tools. The Google team capitalized on the program’s success, providing advice and connecting participants to the GNI network. FT Strategies, the Financial Times’ specialist consultancy, led the execution of the program, providing clear insight into AI developments in the industry, based on its experience working with over 600 publishing businesses worldwide.
The catalyst program for the integration of artificial intelligence in publishing organizations
The centerpiece of the program was the Design Sprint workshop, a one-day workshop in which participants had the opportunity to get to know in depth the possibilities offered by artificial intelligence in the publishing industry. The workshop – led by the FT Strategies and Google team – was based on the Design Sprint methodology encouraging participants to assess both business challenges and opportunities in order to identify relevant AI use cases, think strategically, prioritize them and plan possible solutions.
“The ways in which we all produce, consume and engage with content are undergoing a profound transformation. AI is at the heart of this change.” – Matt Cooke, Head of Google News Lab, Google
Structured approach
Before the workshop, the participants took part in training sessions and practical exercises. These included an introduction to artificial intelligence, strategy, machine learning, and guidance on AI use cases. A diagnostic survey was also conducted to assess the organizational capabilities of the participants.
“The aim of this activity is to write as many solutions to some of the opportunities that have been defined for your business. All ideas may turn into something valuable in the future, and diversity of perspectives leads to safer and more robust AI solutions.” – Aliya Itzkowitz, Manager, FT Strategies
Results and impact
The program was designed to accelerate the actions of publishing companies in the implementation of AI. Participants left with expanded knowledge and a structured approach for future AI initiatives. The program also contributed to knowledge sharing and networking opportunities with industry experts.
Promoting a culture of innovation
One of the key outcomes of the program was to foster a culture of innovation among publishers. By demystifying artificial intelligence the participants thought creatively about its application in their activities. An innovative environment is vital so that any publishing business can align with modern technological developments.
“We want publishers to learn this AI design methodology. This will enable them to repeat it themselves outside of the Design Sprint.” – Tim Part, Senior Manager, FT Strategies
The future of publishing companies driven by artificial intelligence
The AI Design Sprint and Foundation Program is more than a one-off event; it’s a springboard for an AI-driven future in the publishing industry. The insights and strategies developed during the program are expected to influence how publishers approach content creation, distribution and audience engagement for years to come.
