Management students explore the power of hybrid intelligence

Apeejay School of Management (ASM), Dwarka, organised an online guest lecture as part of its Business Analytics course curriculum, offering students and faculty valuable industry insights into the practical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business strategy. Conducted via Zoom from 3 pm to 4 pm, the session featured Ms. Richa Banotra, AI Research and Development Lead at McDermott International, Ltd. The lecture was organised under the guidance of Prof. Saumya Satija and Dr. Shalini Vermani.

Titled “The Winning AI Strategy Isn’t More AI,” the lecture explored the concept of hybrid intelligence—an approach that combines the analytical capabilities of AI with human judgment, contextual understanding and domain expertise. The session highlighted how organisations can derive meaningful business value from AI by integrating it thoughtfully into decision-making processes rather than focusing simply on expanding its adoption.

Drawing on practical examples and real-world industry use cases, Ms. Banotra explained that greater reliance on AI does not automatically translate into better business outcomes. Instead, organisations need to identify where intelligent systems can strengthen human capabilities, improve decision quality, and support strategic objectives. She emphasised that AI should augment human expertise rather than replace it, particularly in situations that require contextual awareness, experience and informed judgment.

The lecture also examined the contribution of hybrid intelligence to long-term and sustainable business value. By bringing together the speed and analytical strength of intelligent systems with the creativity, critical thinking and contextual knowledge of people, organisations can develop more balanced approaches to complex business challenges. This perspective encouraged students to look beyond technology-led adoption and consider how AI can align with an organisation’s broader goals.

Among the key takeaways was the importance of evaluating AI initiatives through measurable business outcomes rather than the scale of technology deployment alone. The session also underscored the need for human oversight in AI-supported decision-making and the development of clear frameworks that enable effective collaboration between people and intelligent systems.

The lecture’s industry-oriented perspective complemented the Business Analytics curriculum, helping students connect academic concepts with the realities of organisational strategy and implementation. It broadened their understanding of how human expertise and AI-enabled analytics can work together to create sustainable value.

Overall, the engaging and informative session offered students and faculty a practical perspective on responsible, purposeful AI adoption and the evolving relationship between technology, people and business decision-making.