Ikea sets targets for artificial intelligence literacy training to 3,000 co-workers, 500 leaders — Retail Technology Innovation Hub
The initiative encompasses a variety of courses tailored to meet the needs of co-workers at various levels and journeys within the organisation.
These range from AI Fundamentals, available to all co-workers, to specialised training like Responsible AI and Mastering Gen AI and Algorithmic Training for Ethics.
The objective is to embed a deep understanding of AI across the organisation, ensuring that Ikea values are reflected in the way the technology is utilised. For leaders, programmes such as AI Exploration Days are designed to align AI potential with Ikea business priorities.
Beyond this, the retailer has invested in programs such as the Accelerator Programme, for tech enthusiasts with a Masters of PhD in the fields of Data Science, Machine Learning or Large Language Models, which aims to fill critical roles by attracting and nurturing the right talent.
’We are providing a blended experience for learning, and doing in a way that future-proofs our workforce to ensure we remain at the forefront of innovation,” says Francesco Marzoni, Global Data & Analytics Officer (CDAO), for Ikea Retail (Ingka Group).
Ikea is working with various AI tools developed by the organisation or jointly with suppliers. Hej Copilot, launched recently, is an example of a Gen AI tool that has been powered in collaboration with Microsoft.
It is designed to assist co-workers with high ranging tasks, from test and image creation to generating ideas and crafting presentations. Hej Copilot is augmenting human capabilities and allowing coworkers to focus on higher value tasks.
