How to Keep AI from Becoming the Wild West

I’m old enough to remember when colleges first got websites. And as someone who has spent much of her career untangling the “Wild West” those sites devolved into, I’m determined to help ensure generative AI doesn’t follow the same path.

AI tools can absolutely accelerate our work, but they require caution and intentionality. As you approach adoption, don’t get distracted by shiny objects. Instead, ask:

• What problem are we solving?

• Which tasks bog down our team?

• Where can we create space for more human-centered, creative work?

That mindset shift — from tools to outcomes — is what separates strategic use from superficial use.

Last Friday on Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, I tackled this topic with a case study from Miami University. Nikki Ferrell, Associate Director of Online Enrollment Marketing and Communications, shared how the UCM team began by forming an AI steering committee to guide usage, policy, and ethics. Since then, they’ve focused on education and open dialogue, encouraging staff to explore, make mistakes, and grow in a supportive environment. Adopters become advocates. Skepticism turns into cautious confidence. AI becomes a shared journey, not a mandate.

Tune in to the episode for practical tips to unlock AI’s potential for your team and keep it from becoming the next Wild West.