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Navigating AI Vendor Selection in Higher Ed
Manage episode 434036013 series 3541344
In this episode, we tackle a timely issue for our higher education friends: how to choose the right AI vendor. As you enter planning mode and vet potential partners, we share our insights on navigating the good and bad of AI vendor selection. We discuss the challenges of implementing emerging AI technologies, where possibilities are vast but proven successes are still unfolding. Using real-world examples, including a recent case from the Los Angeles Unified School District, we offer practical advice on what to consider when selecting AI partners. Whether you're launching new projects or expanding existing ones, this episode will help you make informed decisions in the rapidly evolving world of AI in higher education.
The Current AI Landscape in Higher Education
- Recognize that AI adoption in higher ed is still in early stages
- Understand that planning and vendor selection are crucial first steps
- Be aware that while AI possibilities are vast, proven use cases are still developing
Lessons from the LA Unified School District AI Project
- Large-scale AI projects carry significant risks
- Proper scoping and realistic expectations are essential
- Consider starting with smaller, focused AI initiatives before scaling up
Evaluating AI Vendors: Beyond the Hype
- Look past marketing buzz and focus on concrete AI capabilities
- Ask for specific, relevant examples of AI applications in higher ed
- Check references and speak with current clients about their experiences
Understanding the True Cost of AI Implementation
- Budget for hidden costs like integration and ongoing maintenance
- Consider long-term expenses, not just initial implementation costs
- Evaluate different pricing models to find the best fit for your institution
Data Considerations in AI Projects
- Assess your institution's data quality and quantity before starting AI projects
- Plan for data integration challenges with existing systems
- Prioritize student data privacy and security in all AI initiatives
The Value of Proof of Concepts (POCs)
- Use POCs to test AI capabilities in your specific environment
- Set clear, measurable goals and timelines for AI pilots
- Be prepared to learn from both successes and failures in POCs
Change Management and AI Adoption
- Prepare for organizational changes when implementing AI
- Involve stakeholders early in the AI adoption process
- View AI as a tool for transformation, not just process automation
Choosing the Right AI Partner for Your Institution
- Look for partners with higher education experience and understanding
- Prioritize vendors who offer both technological and strategic support
- Build partnerships based on shared goals and long-term vision
A Guide to Selecting the Perfect AI Chatbot
- - - -
Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Ardis Kadiu
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ardis/
https://twitter.com/ardis
Dr. JC Bonilla
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/
https://twitter.com/jbonillx
About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Generation AI is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
91 episodes
Manage episode 434036013 series 3541344
In this episode, we tackle a timely issue for our higher education friends: how to choose the right AI vendor. As you enter planning mode and vet potential partners, we share our insights on navigating the good and bad of AI vendor selection. We discuss the challenges of implementing emerging AI technologies, where possibilities are vast but proven successes are still unfolding. Using real-world examples, including a recent case from the Los Angeles Unified School District, we offer practical advice on what to consider when selecting AI partners. Whether you're launching new projects or expanding existing ones, this episode will help you make informed decisions in the rapidly evolving world of AI in higher education.
The Current AI Landscape in Higher Education
- Recognize that AI adoption in higher ed is still in early stages
- Understand that planning and vendor selection are crucial first steps
- Be aware that while AI possibilities are vast, proven use cases are still developing
Lessons from the LA Unified School District AI Project
- Large-scale AI projects carry significant risks
- Proper scoping and realistic expectations are essential
- Consider starting with smaller, focused AI initiatives before scaling up
Evaluating AI Vendors: Beyond the Hype
- Look past marketing buzz and focus on concrete AI capabilities
- Ask for specific, relevant examples of AI applications in higher ed
- Check references and speak with current clients about their experiences
Understanding the True Cost of AI Implementation
- Budget for hidden costs like integration and ongoing maintenance
- Consider long-term expenses, not just initial implementation costs
- Evaluate different pricing models to find the best fit for your institution
Data Considerations in AI Projects
- Assess your institution's data quality and quantity before starting AI projects
- Plan for data integration challenges with existing systems
- Prioritize student data privacy and security in all AI initiatives
The Value of Proof of Concepts (POCs)
- Use POCs to test AI capabilities in your specific environment
- Set clear, measurable goals and timelines for AI pilots
- Be prepared to learn from both successes and failures in POCs
Change Management and AI Adoption
- Prepare for organizational changes when implementing AI
- Involve stakeholders early in the AI adoption process
- View AI as a tool for transformation, not just process automation
Choosing the Right AI Partner for Your Institution
- Look for partners with higher education experience and understanding
- Prioritize vendors who offer both technological and strategic support
- Build partnerships based on shared goals and long-term vision
A Guide to Selecting the Perfect AI Chatbot
- - - -
Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Ardis Kadiu
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ardis/
https://twitter.com/ardis
Dr. JC Bonilla
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcbonilla/
https://twitter.com/jbonillx
About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
Generation AI is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Attend the 2025 Engage Summit!
The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.
Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register
91 episodes
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