Humans + AI, in tune

“AI tempts us to see only the obvious—efficiency, cost savings, speed. But if we pause and look again, other images emerge: the new roles where humans matter even more.”
– Jonathan Hodge, Requiem from a Robot

Not science fiction— managing hybrid teams of humans + AI is the new reality of performance management.

In a powerful new paper, Requiem from a Robot, Advantage CEO Jonathan Hodge explores how leadership is being reshaped as generative and agentic AI become part of the team.

Drawing on new research from Stanford showing widespread adoption of AI and a decline in employment of early-career workers, Jon offers a timely guide for leaders based on the Symphony performance management model when the “orchestra” includes both people and AI agents.

While AI can handle precision and scale, only people bring empathy, ethics, and context. The future of work isn’t man vs. machine—it’s leaders conducting both in harmony.

Symphony equips organizations to cultivate the power skills machines can’t replicate—curiosity, empathy, collaboration—while aligning work to strategy in real time. It’s about building the kind of workforce that doesn’t just keep pace with AI, but brings meaning and insight to the rhythm of business.

As AI gets louder, the human touch becomes more vital.

This is a must-read for anyone shaping the future of leadership, talent, and learning.

Read the summary + download the full paper here!

One great thing for 10.14.25 – Introducing Ignite – Ignite is a new, 6-step mobile app from our thought leader partners at Harness Intelligence with 1st90 that helps any organization quickly launch managed AI adoption using your approved agent, policies, and authorized company practices. Ensure alignment and understanding while turning the AI hype into hands-on skills.  Ask us how it’s working for our clients!