AI in 2027: Preparing your business and people for what's next
Description
AI is changing the way small businesses work, and it's happening fast. New tools and opportunities are emerging all the time, making it difficult to know what's worth investing in, what to avoid and how to prepare for what's coming next.
While we can't predict exactly what AI will look like in 2027, we do know a lot about how people respond to change, uncertainty and new technology.
Delivered by our Program Principal, Suzanne (Sues) Tonks, this practical workshop explores the human side of using AI and what it means for your business.
The challenge
Many small businesses are already using AI, but knowing how to make it work effectively across the business isn't always straightforward.
Common challenges include:
Keeping up with new AI tools and knowing which ones are worth using
Helping employees feel confident and comfortable using AI
Understanding why some people embrace AI while others resist it
Knowing when to trust AI and when to use your own judgement
Protecting customer information, privacy and business reputation
Making sure AI genuinely saves time, improves productivity and adds value
Without a clear approach, businesses risk wasting time on the wrong tools, making avoidable mistakes or missing opportunities to work more effectively.
Our approach
This is a practical, easy-to-understand workshop designed specifically for small and medium businesses.
Rather than focusing on technical information or trying to predict the next big AI development, we'll explore the human side of using AI and what it means for your business.
We'll look at how people respond to new technology, why trust and confidence matter, and how to make better decisions about where and when to use AI.
Through real-world business examples and practical exercises, you'll learn how to get more value from AI while keeping people, good judgement and customer trust at the centre of your business.
What you will explore
AI in 2027: What's changing, what remains uncertain and what your business can prepare for now
The human side of AI: Why people embrace, resist or worry about AI, and how to build confidence in using it
Getting real business value: Identifying where AI can save time, improve efficiency and support your team
Knowing when to trust AI: Understanding its limitations, avoiding common mistakes and knowing when human judgement matters
Using AI responsibly: Simple ways to protect customer information, maintain quality and build trust
Helping your team adapt: Practical ways to introduce AI, encourage its use and manage concerns about change
Preparing for what's next: Creating a simple action plan to help your business make smarter AI decisions as technology evolves
You'll leave with practical ideas you can apply immediately, a better understanding of how people respond to AI, and a clearer plan for using it confidently and responsibly in your business.
Who this is for
Business owners and founders
Managers and team leaders
Operations and administration teams
Marketing and communications professionals
Growing businesses looking to improve productivity and efficiency
No technical background or previous AI experience required.
Facilitator
Suzanne (Sues) Tonks
Managing Director, Limestone Group
PhD Candidate (Psychology) | Monash University Doctoral Researcher | Provisional Psychologist (AHPRA) | Former Founder, Oliver & York | 20+ years business and leadership experience
Lineup
Suzanne (Sues) Tonks
Suzanne (Sues) Tonks is the Managing Director of Limestone Group and brings a rare combination of psychology, leadership expertise and real-world business experience. Alongside her work in organisational psychology, Sues has spent more than 20 years advising leaders, business owners and executive teams through periods of growth, change and uncertainty. She has worked across government, not-for-profit organisations, professional services, creative agencies and private enterprise, helping organisations make better decisions, communicate effectively and build sustainable capability. Importantly for small business owners, Sues has also built and successfully operated her own public relations and strategic communications agency, Oliver & York. She understands first-hand the realities of running a business, leading a team, managing clients, navigating growth and balancing competing priorities in resource-constrained environments. Sues is completing a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology at Monash University and holds Provisional Psychologist registration with AHPRA. She also holds degrees in Business, Commerce and Communication. She is the developer of the AIMPI (AI Management Positioning Inventory) and leads Limestone Group's workshops, leadership programs and strategic advisory engagements. A sought-after speaker and facilitator, Sues helps leaders and organisations navigate the intersection of AI, psychology, leadership and business performance in an increasingly complex world.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
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