Why boring problems are the most exciting opportunity for AI

Most organisations fall into the chatbot trap. As the most ‘visible’ form of AI, many businesses look to implement what they understand and recognise. But this requires building chatbots with massive surface areas of things that could be asked and therefore a massive range of potential outputs. This is very difficult to test and can easily frustrate users. James’ session will draw upon his vast experience to reveal that the most impactful AI innovations happen in the boring, overlooked processes that nobody thought to automate before. Drawing from real client-facing AI implementations, his talk will demonstrate how to identify high-impact AI opportunities by working backwards from your biggest time drains, rather than forward from the latest AI trends. For instance, he recently built an automated system for Flutter Timeform, transforming its customer engagement strategy within horse racing, whilst also driving efficiency internally through a 50% improvement in automated horse racing prediction accuracy. Attendees will learn why structured data pipelines with constrained AI outputs dramatically outperform open-ended chatbots, and learn a practical framework for evaluating AI opportunities that prioritises tangible impact over technological sophistication. Key takeaways Attendees will leave with: A systematic approach to identify AI opportunities by starting with time-consuming processes rather than AI capabilities, including practical techniques for mapping workflow bottlenecks to AI solutions. Understanding how structured data outputs from LLMs can streamline workflows through human-in-the-loop or self-serve processes, rather than relying on freeform generation that's difficult to test and validate. Concrete methods for measuring AI success beyond ‘vibes’ - including automated scoring systems and risk assessment frameworks that help to prevent costly deployment failures. An understanding of what ‘good’ looks like for AI and your business. By asking “what’s the news headline you don’t want to see?” the talk will cut to the heart of whether AI is viable for you, and how your firm can avoid disasters in the implementation process. Understanding AI viability for your business by asking the simple question - “what’s the news headline you don’t want to see?”. The talk will give attendees a more well-rounded idea of what a ‘good’ (and bad!) AI output looks like, and how your business can reach this goal. A better understanding of how to identify the ‘boring’ problems that offer the highest impact-to-effort ratios, with specific examples. Why this matters This session addresses the gap between AI potential and real-world delivery, exploring how practical innovation leads to greater collaboration, business performance and enhanced employee satisfaction. While organisations rush to implement AI chatbots, they're missing structured automation opportunities that could transform their operations immediately. The session will combine James’ strategic thinking with tactical implementation guidance, perfect for senior professionals who need to move beyond AI experimentation into delivering measurable business impact.