Rachel Laycock

The Human Side of AI: Unlocking Opportunity in the New Bottlenecks of Software Development
Artificial Intelligence is transforming software development at unprecedented speedreshaping roles, workflows, and organizational dynamics. Yet, with every acceleration comes a new constraint.
Kiran Rouzie (Head of Technology Strategy, North America & Global Head of Organizational Change & Transformation) and Rachel Laycock (CTO) of ThoughtWorks will discuss how AI introduces fresh bottlenecks that shift where value is created in the delivery lifecycle and how these shifts unlock opportunities for business analysts, QA professionals, and other often-overlooked roles to rise in influence. More broadly, they will reflect on the human side of AI adoption: how diversity of thought, perspective, and lived experience must shape the integration of AI into the workforce.

Far from being a story of replacement, this conversation emphasizes the collective contribution of people in guiding, validating, and amplifying AIs potential. Kiran and Rachel will highlight how voices from diverse and minority communities are essential in shaping trustworthy AI practices, and how organizations can foster inclusion while reimagining roles.

Attendees will walk away with a deeper understanding of:

• How AI changes the balance of skills in software delivery.
• Why new bottlenecks are actually opportunities for under-recognized roles.
• The critical role of diversity and human perspective in ensuring responsible AI integration.
• Strategies for navigating organizational change at the intersection of technology and people.
• This conversation invites us to see AI not just as a tool of efficiency, but as a catalyst for rethinking how we value human contribution in building the future of software.