I've noticed three types of AI users emerging in organisations:
The Haphazards are well-meaning, curious people who've started using AI without any real process or permission. They experiment with ChatGPT and Copilot, sometimes succeeding brilliantly, sometimes failing spectacularly. But they're learning what's possible.
The Human Hands are traditional experts whose deep skills and experience are being challenged. Their concern: someone with half their experience plus AI literacy and decent prompts can now match their output.
The Hundies are the rare few who've mastered AI effectively, combining technical fluency with sound judgment about the tool's limitations and capabilities.
Rather than viewing Haphazards as problematic, leaders should recognise them as the messy, chaotic first wave preceding structural normalisation.
My advice: Nurture experimental users with proper tools and education. Reassure experienced professionals that AI augmentation creates value. Develop coherent AI strategies integrated into actual workflows. Create collaborative learning spaces rather than competitive environments.
The future winners won't simply automate fastest. They'll be those who combine curiosity and capability with judgment.
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