Microsoft hosts an AI event that is powered by AI
A full day of envisioning sessions for senior business leaders from Microsoft’s top accounts
AI is on everyone’s agenda
Artificial intelligence is at the top of everyone’s agenda. Half of companies have already invested in AI, and two-thirds plan to invest more over the next three years. The surge in AI investment is no secret, and every tech company is vying for a share of the booming market. Microsoft needed to stand out.
Insights revealed that while the C-suite had big AI ambitions, there was a significant gap in foundational AI literacy. Employees were not waiting for leadership to implement AI strategies. Microsoft’s Work Trends Index found 74% of knowledge workers already using AI, yet only 30% of companies had established an AI policy, a discrepancy leading to growing risk and compliance issues. Microsoft wanted to close that gap by giving the C-suite the insights and resources to plot the path forward.
Weaving AI into the experience
Instead of going digital, Microsoft chose a physical, in-person event at their office, an exclusive experience for senior business leaders from top accounts. The creative was colorful and vibrant, with 3D-rendered cubes as metaphors for the building blocks of AI. The event was about AI and powered by AI as well.
The agenda that led the conversation
The event opened with a fireside chat on responsible AI and economic growth. It was followed by a panel discussion with customer CEOs sharing their experiences of GenAI workplace transformation.
Top partners ran the workshops
Microsoft invited top partners including Accenture, BDO, EY and PwC to facilitate strategic workshops with attendees. Accenture also presented on AI market insights. The partners offered practical advice tailored to each participant’s needs.
Experiences powered by AI itself
AI composed the original music that provided the background at the event. An AI-powered golf simulator recorded attendees’ golf swings and turned them into 3D animation with accurate biomechanical measurements. AI was brought to the event swag too, using style transfer on an attendee photo to create a custom design printed on socks.
Getting the C-suite in the room
To get the C-suite there, sales was equipped with targeted email invites and LinkedIn copy to capture the attention of busy executives. A parallel PR strategy earned interviews on how AI can help close the productivity gap.
A full house
Over 250 customers registered and 75% attended, against a Microsoft benchmark of 50%. Originally planned as a pilot, the event has expanded into a global tour.
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