Don't Get Fooled Again.
The Next Big Hype, Agentic AI
The Alchemy of Hype, Hope & BS!
As a member of the tech industry, it’s truly a magical realm that I wholeheartedly enjoy working in, BUT, even I’m struggling at times to wear an honest smile when so many of yesterday’s buzzwords become today’s punchlines. Remember when “synergy” was all the rage? Or when “blockchain” was going to revolutionise everything from finance to your morning toast? Well, hold onto your hats, folks, because the latest contender in the buzzword Olympics is here: Agentic AI. Yes, that’s right. Not just any AI, but agentic AI. Because slapping a fancy adjective in front of “AI” makes it sound like we’ve just discovered fire. Again.
Agentic AI: The Emperor's New Clothes
So, what exactly is Agentic AI? According to the hype machine, it’s AI that doesn’t just sit there waiting for you to tell it what to do. No, no. This AI takes initiative! It plans! It acts! Maybe it might even make you a cup of coffee if you’re lucky. In other words, it’s AI that’s supposed to be more autonomous and capable of performing tasks without constant human prompting.
Erm, I may be a fortunate insider, but I don’t see anything new about that. I’ve seen this movie before, so let me share the plot. Remember Robotic Process Automation (RPA)? Those nifty little bots that automate repetitive tasks, integrate with various systems, and basically do everything short of walking your dog? (if you’re unsure, check out my previous blogs or our website). Or how about Conversational AI assistants (NOT Chatbots) that can handle customer inquiries, schedule appointments, deliver a hyper-personalised experience with small-talk and even tell you a joke if you’re having a rough day? (again, see my other blogs and company website). And let’s not forget the integration of these assistants with ChatGPT, bringing a whole new level of conversational prowess to the table. (although I admit, most are still scratching their heads trying to make this work beyond a more advanced and interactive search engine).
In essence, we’ve had the tools that automate tasks and interact with users for years. But now, by rebranding it as “Agentic AI,” we’re supposed to believe it’s something entirely new and groundbreaking. It’s like putting a spoiler on a minivan and calling it a sports car.
The Hype Cycle: Rinse and Repeat
Gartner, the oracle of tech trends, has placed Agentic AI on its Hype Cycle, predicting that by 2028, at least 15% of day-to-day work decisions will be made autonomously through agentic AI. But let’s not forget, this is the same Hype Cycle that has seen countless “revolutionary” technologies come and go, leaving behind a trail of disillusionment and abandoned pilot projects.
The pattern is all too familiar: a new technology emerges, it’s hailed as the next big thing, companies scramble to adopt it, and then reality sets in. The technology doesn’t live up to the inflated expectations, and we’re left wondering why we ever thought it was a good idea to let a chatbot handle customer complaints.
The Real Deal: RPA (aka Bots) and Conversational AI
Before we get swept away by the Agentic AI tsunami, let’s take a moment to appreciate the tools we already have. RPA bots (like our Beanie Bots) have been quietly and efficiently automating processes, reducing errors, and saving time. They don’t need another fancy new label to prove their worth. They just get the job done.
Similarly, Conversational AI assistants have been enhancing customer experiences, providing instant support, and integrating seamlessly with platforms like ChatGPT to offer more natural interactions. They’re not waiting for a rebranding to show their value.
The Bottom Line: Don't Drink the Kool-Aid
In the end, Agentic AI is just the latest in a long line of overhyped tech trends. It’s not that the concept lacks potential; it’s that the marketing machine has once again outpaced reality. Before jumping on the Agentic AI bandwagon, take a step back and assess whether it’s truly offering something new or just repackaging existing technologies with a shiny new bow.
Remember, in the world of tech, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. So, let’s not get fooled again.
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