Jarno Duursma: the pace of AI developments will only continue to increase

The development that is underestimated is, in particular, the speed. Firstly, of developments in general. AI systems write computer code incredibly well, and these are the building blocks of the digital world. AI agents are capable of collaborating and autonomously solving increasingly complex problems. Much of the knowledge work we do is being taken over by autonomous systems.

The positive societal changes brought about by AI lie primarily in scientific discoveries. Creative machines and systems that generate and test hypotheses are leading to greater leaps in science. We are only a short distance away from the moment when AI systems will build the next generation of AI systems.

The biggest misconception companies have about generative AI is that it remains limited to ChatGPT or Copilot. Or that it is a temporary hype that will soon die down.

The skills becoming essential for developers and designers in an AI-driven industry are being able to ask the right questions and articulate what the end result should be. Being able to provide context and interpretation. Being able to sense and articulate your moral judgment. Embracing a mindset in which you are continuously a beginner. Persuading others and motivating them.

The advice I would like to give to companies that want to be future-proof is, first of all, to delve into the current AI capabilities. Free up people within the organization to get started with them. This is not just a minor development; it makes a fundamental difference. Let people investigate what the opportunities and possibilities are. Give employees room to experiment. Try to articulate at an early stage what negative consequences this technology might have in the workplace, such as increased workload, the erosion of work and sense of purpose, or a decline in expertise.

AI expert Jarno Duursma is the keynote speaker at WoTS 2026. Visitors can register for this trade fair free of charge. via the website.