“In the age of AI, strategy is no longer just about where to play; it’s about how to adapt.” — Andrew Ng, AI guru
This quote from Andrew Ng captures a profound shift in how organizations and leaders must approach strategy in the era of artificial intelligence. Traditionally, strategic planning has focused on identifying the right markets, customers, or products—the “where to play” aspect. However, as AI rapidly transforms industries, Ng argues that the ability to adapt to ongoing technological changes has become just as crucial, if not more so.
The background for this perspective stems from Ng’s deep involvement in the practical deployment of AI at scale. With advances in machine learning and automation, the competitive landscape is continuously evolving. It is no longer enough to set a single strategic direction; leaders need to develop organizational agility to embrace new technologies and iterate their models, processes, and offerings in response to rapid change. Ng’s message emphasizes that AI is not a static tool, but a disruptive force that requires companies to rethink how they respond to uncertainty and opportunity. This shift from fixed planning to adaptive learning mirrors the very nature of AI systems themselves, which are designed to learn, update, and improve over time.
Ng’s insight also reflects his broader view that AI should be used to automate routine tasks, freeing up human talent to focus on creative, strategic, and adaptive functions. As such, the modern strategic imperative is about continually repositioning and reinventing—not just staking out a position and defending it.
About Andrew Ng
Andrew Ng is one of the world’s most influential figures in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Born in 1976, he is a British-American computer scientist and technology entrepreneur. Ng co-founded Google Brain, where he played a pivotal role in advancing deep learning research, and later served as Chief Scientist at Baidu, leading a large AI group. He is also a prominent educator, co-founding Coursera and creating widely popular online courses that have democratized access to AI knowledge for millions worldwide.
Ng has consistently advocated for practical, human-centered adoption of AI. He introduced the widely referenced idea that “AI is the new electricity,” underscoring its foundational and transformative impact across industries. He has influenced both startups and established enterprises through initiatives such as Landing AI and the AI Fund, which focus on applying AI to real-world problems and fostering AI entrepreneurship.
Andrew Ng is known for his clear communication and balanced perspective on the opportunities and challenges of AI. Recognized globally for his contributions, he has been named among Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People and continues to shape the trajectory of AI through his research, teaching, and thought leadership. His work encourages businesses and individuals alike to not only adopt AI technologies, but to cultivate the adaptability and critical thinking needed to thrive in an age of constant change.
