From Efficiency to Impact: Don Taylor and Eglė Vinauskaitė on AI in L&D

We had an incredible conversation with Don Taylor and Eglė Vinauskaitė about their report, AI and L&D: Intention and Reality. Their research goes deep into how AI is reshaping learning and development, from streamlining tasks like content creation to enabling strategic integration across organizations. Don and Eglė talked about the fact that AI’s potential goes far beyond efficiency—it’s about solving meaningful business challenges and driving innovation through smarter decision-making.A standout idea was their “immaturity model,” which challenges the notion of linear AI adoption. They explained that success relies on factors like leadership mindset, organizational readiness, and strong cross-functional relationships, rather than following a predictable path.Their advice to start with clear business problems was especially impactful, offering a practical way to cut through AI hype and focus on real value. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating AI in L&D.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...The critical need for L&D to look beyond silos [0:45]What the "immaturity model" says about AI adoption [1:10]How Don and Eglė’s perspectives shape AI in L&D [3:40]Why organizations are stuck in AI’s efficiency phase [7:39]How historical mindsets limit L&D’s potential with AI [13:20]Why AI adoption isn’t a linear progression [16:26]The real barriers to embracing AI in L&D [27:10]Starting with the right problem: Key to AI success [35:00]Balancing experimentation with efficiency in AI adoption [44:47]Resources & People MentionedAI and L&D: Intention and Reality by Don Taylor and Eglė VinauskaitėHeather Stefanski, CLO of McKinseyAI and L&D: From Talk to Action (Previous report)Connect with Don Taylor and Eglė VinauskaitėDonald H. Taylor’s websiteEglė Vinauskaitė’s LinkedInConnect With Red Thread ResearchWebsite: Red Thread ResearchOn LinkedInOn FacebookOn TwitterSubscribe to WORKPLACE STORIES