In this episode of Edtech Connect, host Jeff Dillon chats with Jennie Wong, Global Director of Education at Slalom, about how universities can harness AI and data to drive strategic value. Jennie shares her innovative "car metaphor" framework for AI implementation, reveals surprising GenAI use cases, and explains why federated data models are the future for higher ed.

From overcoming institutional overwhelm to reimagining student engagement with e-commerce tactics, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for leaders navigating the AI revolution.

Key Takeaways

1. The "Car Metaphor" Framework: AI is the engine, but you also need steering (functional expertise), integration (systems), and fuel (data) to reach strategic goals.
2. Start Small, Scale Fast: Focus on high-impact, low-complexity projects (e.g., A/B testing AI-enhanced fundraising emails) to demonstrate quick wins.
3. Federated Data Strategy: Centralize only what’s necessary (e.g., cloud contracts) and empower departments with domain-specific data ownership.
4. E-Commerce Lessons for Higher Ed: Apply tactics like "comeback campaigns" for stopout students and reduce application abandonment with behavioral design.
5. ROI Nuances in Higher Ed: Measure year-one success via efficiency gains (e.g., administrative workflows) and year-three via mission outcomes (e.g., persistence rates).
6. Agentic AI Future: Every campus role will blend human judgment with AI assistance—escalating complex/emotional tasks to people.

Chapter Headings with Time Stamps

(00:01) - Introduction: Meet Jennie Wong - From Organizational Communication to AI Strategy

(04:40) - Slalom’s Triple-Digit Growth: Personas and Partner Alignment

(06:30) - The "Car Metaphor": AI as an Engine, Not a Silver Bullet

(09:13) - Biggest Struggles: Simplifying Choices with Strategic Value Maps

(11:18) - Surprising GenAI Wins: Doubling Fundraising at UCLA

(13:16) - Data Strategy: Federated Models and Conversational AI

(15:38) - E-Commerce Tactics: Paradox of Choice and Comeback Campaigns

(18:39) - Measuring ROI: Efficiency vs. Mission Impact

(21:07) - Future of Campus Jobs: Humans + AI Collaboration

(22:47) - Jennie’s Inspiration: Learning from Entertainment and VR (ASU’s Dreamscape)

Listen now to rethink AI strategy—and turn data into measurable impact.

Find Jennie Wong here:

LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniewong/

Slalom

https://www.slalom.com/

And find EdTech Connect here:

Web: https://edtechconnect.com/