In this dynamic episode, Qlik CTO Sam Pierson reveals how smart, data-driven decisions and a rock-solid data strategy pave the way for AI success. He explains the rise of agentic AI and what it means for your business, and shares how to set clear goals, measure ROI, and sidestep common tech missteps. Pierson also shares essential tips on leveraging the low-code and AI-assisted development boom, plus the career skills you need to thrive in tomorrow’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.

Summary

Sam Pierson brings his perspective as Qlik’s CTO to the table, diving into the transformative journey businesses face when they harness AI alongside a strategic approach to data. He shares the practical realities of how companies are adopting task-focused AI agents, why well-maintained data is critical for real results, and the ways Qlik is empowering organizations to blend flexibility with robust analytics across their tech ecosystem. The conversation spotlights overcoming past challenges in data management, setting clear goals for ROI, and navigating the surge in AI-assisted and low-code development. Throughout, Sam underscores that genuine innovation starts with clarity and experimentation, always anchored by a solid data strategy at the foundation.

Key Quotes:

• "The real breakthrough with AI comes when your agents can safely leverage your company’s own proprietary data."
• "Unlike the past, adopting modern AI systems is easier than ever because you can access powerful models simply through an API."
• "Every successful technology project needs to begin with clear metrics to guide what you want to achieve and how you’ll measure it."
• "AI-assisted development tools now make it possible to rapidly turn ideas into real products, changing the pace of innovation."
• "While AI is transforming everything, the success of these initiatives always comes back to building from a strong data foundation."

Takeaways

• Ensuring your proprietary data is well-structured is the foundation of successful AI initiatives.
• Modern AI solutions are easier to implement than ever before, thanks to accessible APIs and cloud platforms.
• Setting clear, measurable goals and metrics is essential for tracking the success and return on investment of new technologies.
• Companies should embrace both established vendors and innovative development tools to remain adaptable and competitive.
• Experimentation, piloting projects, and developing a deliberate data strategy are critical for technologists aiming to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Timestamps

• 00:00:00 – Introduction and Guest Background
• 00:01:17 – The Shift Toward Task-Specific AI Agents
• 00:03:20 – Data as the Key to AI Success
• 00:05:10 – Overcoming Historical Technology Hurdles
• 00:06:02 – Qlik’s Approach to Data Solutions
• 00:07:58 – Measuring ROI and Setting Metrics
• 00:09:43 – The Rise of Vibe Coded Applications
• 00:12:21 – Gaps and Opportunities in Tech Careers
• 00:13:45 – Key Takeaways and Closing Remarks

Links/Resource

Website: Qlick - https://www.qlik.com/us

LinkedIn: Sam Pierson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuelpierson/

Podcast: Full Tech Ahead — Hosted by Amanda Razani

Find Amanda Razani on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-razani-990a7233/