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5 AM Club

Quite often, people 🤔 ask me – how do you manage to do multiple things? My answer is that I belong to “The 5 AM Club ⏰”.

“The 5 AM Club” by Robin Sharma is a motivational book that revolves around a revolutionary concept: owning your morning to elevate your life. Here is an infographic visual of “The 5 AM Club”.

Central to the book is the idea of the 5 AM club—a routine where individuals wake up early, dedicate time to personal growth, and start their day with exercise, meditation, and learning. According to Robin Sharma, this practice enhances focus 🎯, productivity, and overall well-being❤️‍🩹.

Key lessons 💡 include the value of consistent habits, the power of self-discipline, the importance of escaping complacency, mastery of time and the significance of nurturing mind, body, and spirit.

 

The author blends storytelling with practical advice, presenting a compelling case for how the early morning hours can be leveraged to achieve personal transformation and extraordinary results. “The 5 AM Club” ⌚serves as both a motivational tale and a blueprint📘 for readers seeking to maximize their potential 📈and lead a life of purpose and fulfilment and achieve lasting success 🎇.

 

Are you 5 AM Club member???

success 5amclub booksummary author leader

5G at a glance

We all have been reading a lot about the launch of 4G in India.  The air is filled with buzz as many types of debate and discussions are taking place.   Today articles are being written on what will happen in terms of pricing and completion with the launch of 4G by one of the major telecom players. This made me wonder what will come next after 4G. Is 5G waiting for us in offering?

With this curiosity, I surfed the internet to discover the when, what, who and where about 5G. Read More…

7 Questions with Biren Parekh

This sure made my day! Here is a link to my latest interview – 7 Questions with Biren Parekh. Jonno White is a highly effective and experienced leadership coach. He has transformed several large and medium-sized corporations through his leadership coaching. 

One can read answers to the following 7 questions in my interview

 

  1. What have you found most challenging as a CEO or executive of a large enterprise?
  2. How did you become a CEO or executive of a large enterprise? Can you please briefly tell the story?
  3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?
  4. What’s the most recent significant leadership lesson you’ve learned?
  5. What’s one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?
  6. How do you build leadership capacity in a large enterprise?
  7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a CEO or executive of a large enterprise so far?

 

Grateful to my company Intellect Design Arena Ltd for the opportunity and freedom to showcase my leadership strength over years. 
 
Waiting to hear your thoughts!

 

 

 

 

Agile V/s Waterfall – A Comparision

 

We have been hearing a lot about comparison between Waterfall project management versus Agile. And many of us have been dilemma as what exactly each one means & which one to use. 

To address this, I am hereby publishing a Presentation prepared by Mr Koti, who is PMP, ACP, PSM1, PAHM, CSP, ITIL & PMI India Senior Champion. Pls click here to view the same.

AHA Moments

💡AHA Moments!!! 🪄

The moments ✨when people have realized what to do in life!!! ❄️

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines an Aha moment 🎊 as a moment of sudden realization, inspiration, insight, recognition, or comprehension. In the context of SaaS and product companies, the Aha! Moment is the first key moment when users realize the value of your product.

Few examples of AHA 🌟💫moments. Note the Age when these celebrities have realized their AHA moment and discovered the valuable 🏅 products!!!!

Any other examples???

Waiting for my AHA moment!!! 😊

#aha #ahamoment #ahamoments #invention #discovery #productinnovation #creativity #creativityandinnovation

AI Driven Project Management: Transforming the Future of Work

Project management is undergoing significant change in the era of digital transformation and at the center of this evolution lies AI driven project management. This technological advancement is not merely a trend but a strategic shift in how projects are planned, executed and monitored. From risk assessment to resource allocation, artificial intelligence is enhancing productivity and enabling more intelligent decision-making in project environments.

This guide defines what AI driven project management means, the frameworks shaping its application particularly PMI and CPMAI and the top tools helping organizations manage AI projects efficiently.

What is AI Driven Project Management?

AI driven project management refers to the use of artificial intelligence technologies such as machine learning, natural language processing and data analytics to automate, optimize and enhance the entire project lifecycle. Unlike traditional methods, this approach provides real-time insights, predicts potential delays and automates routine tasks like scheduling and reporting.

It is more than a technology enhancement, it’s a new paradigm that integrates human expertise with cognitive technologies. This synergy leads to what is often termed cognitive project management in AI, where intelligent systems work alongside project managers to drive better outcomes.

PMI and the Art of Project Management

The Project Management Institute (PMI) has long been the global authority on the art and science of project management. Through its extensive research, standards and certification programs, PMI has consistently guided professionals in mastering the art of project management.

PMI has acknowledged the growing role of AI and has started integrating AI-related competencies into their Project Management Professional (PMP) curriculum. Recognizing AI as a disruptive yet empowering force, PMI encourages project managers to become AI-literate and leverage AI tools to remain relevant and effective. Their contributions to project management for AI have significantly shaped how professionals adapt to modern methodologies.

What is CPMAI?

The Cognitive Project Management for AI (CPMAI) methodology is one of the most recognized frameworks specifically designed for project management for AI. Unlike traditional frameworks, CPMAI is tailored for AI initiatives that are iterative, data-driven and often ambiguous.

CPMAI incorporates best practices from CRISP-DM (Cross Industry Standard Process for Data Mining) and adapts them to fit the unique demands of AI and machine learning projects. This includes data validation, model training, feedback loops and continuous improvement cycles.

With CPMAI, organizations can structure AI projects more effectively by:

  • Setting clear, measurable business goals.
  • Ensuring data quality and relevance.
  • Aligning technical development with business objectives.

This methodology complements the foundational principles of PMI and the project management institute, making it a powerful duo for managing complex AI projects.

Why AI Driven Project Management Matters

AI driven project management is not just a buzzword. Here’s why it’s reshaping industries:

  1. Predictive Analytics: AI tools can forecast project risks, budget overruns and resource shortfalls.
  2. Automation of Routine Tasks: Project scheduling, progress tracking and communication updates can be automated.
  3. Data-Driven Decisions: Real-time analytics help project managers make informed choices quickly.
  4. Enhanced Collaboration: AI enhances virtual collaboration through chatbots, intelligent assistants and task automation.
  5. Scalability: Managing multiple complex AI projects becomes feasible with minimal human oversight.

Best AI Project Management Tools

There are several powerful tools that exemplify AI driven project management. Here are the top platforms worth considering:

1. Monday.com with AI features

Monday.com now offers AI capabilities that help prioritize tasks, generate summaries and predict deadlines. It is widely used for its flexibility and user-friendly interface, making it ideal for AI driven project management.

2. ClickUp AI

ClickUp integrates AI to assist with document creation, task prediction and workflow automation. It’s ideal for teams working on agile and AI projects using modern frameworks like CPMAI.

3. Asana Intelligence

Asana recently launched AI-powered features that help in goal tracking, workload balancing and intelligent project updates. It supports large-scale AI driven project management initiatives with ease.

4. Wrike with AI Project Risk Prediction

Wrike’s AI module helps identify potential bottlenecks and delays, allowing teams to mitigate risks proactively a key element in cognitive project management in AI.

5. Forecast.ai

Specifically built for AI and data science teams, Forecast.ai uses historical project data to provide effort estimations, resource forecasts and timeline predictions, essential for smart AI driven project management.

These tools embody the principles of cognitive project management in AI, transforming how teams strategize and execute their tasks.

Integrating AI Into Traditional Project Management

For many professionals, the challenge lies in integrating AI into existing project workflows. That’s where frameworks like PMI and CPMAI shine. They offer a balanced approach that honors traditional discipline while embracing innovation.

You can start by identifying repetitive, data-heavy processes that AI can handle. Then, select the right AI tool that aligns with your team’s needs. Training and change management are crucial, as successful AI implementation depends heavily on user adoption.

With guidance from the project management institute and resources such as a project management podcast, project managers can stay updated with evolving trends and best practices in AI driven project management.

The Role of Project Management Podcasts

For continuous learning, tuning into a project management podcast is highly recommended. Podcasts provide insights from industry leaders, case studies and updates on new tools. Many top shows now cover themes around AI driven project management, including the impact of CPMAI and updates from PMI.

These podcasts also delve into cognitive project management in AI, making them a valuable source of inspiration and practical advice for managing modern AI projects.

Future of AI Driven Project Management

The future is undeniably AI-centric. As AI tools become more intuitive and integrated, project managers must evolve into strategic facilitators who can harness the power of machine intelligence. The blend of AI tools with human judgment creates a future where AI driven project management is faster, smarter and more precise.

Organizations that embrace AI driven project management will see increased ROI, enhanced team efficiency and greater project success rates. As PMI and CPMAI continue to define best practices in this space, now is the time for project professionals to adapt and lead.

The evolution of the art of project management is clearly heading toward an AI-integrated future. It combines the structured guidance of PMI, the technical depth of CPMAI and the dynamic support of AI tools tailored for project management for AI initiatives.

Final Say –

The convergence of AI with traditional project methodologies marks a new era in how we manage projects. With frameworks like PMI and CPMAI guiding the way and tools like Monday.com, Asana and ClickUp leading innovation, AI driven project management is more accessible than ever.

As we embrace this future, remember that the true strength of AI lies in augmenting human capabilities not replacing them. The smart project manager of tomorrow is one who masters both the art of project management and the science behind AI technologies.

Whether you’re already managing AI projects or planning to step into this exciting field, integrating AI into your project management strategy is not optional, it’s essential. The principles of AI driven project management are already redefining industries and now is the time to lead the change.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Which AI tool is best for project management?

There are many great AI tools available today. Monday.com, ClickUp AI, and Forecast.ai are among the top platforms known for their integration of smart automation and predictive analytics. These tools support the principles of AI driven project management and help streamline workflows efficiently.

2. Will project management be replaced by AI?

AI will not replace project management, but it will transform the role of the project manager. AI takes over repetitive and data-heavy tasks, allowing managers to focus on strategic decision-making. This evolution aligns with the concept of cognitive project management in AI.

3. What is the future of AI in project management?

The future of AI in project management lies in deeper integration, enhanced decision-making, and increased efficiency. As frameworks like CPMAI and institutions like PMI continue to evolve, professionals will see more AI-driven insights guiding project success.

4. Who is the best speaker for project management topics?

Biren Parekh is recognized as one of the best project management speakers. As a seasoned project leader, he brings deep insights into AI transformation and management frameworks. He is also listed among the top AI speakers influencing the future of project leadership.

5. Are there any notable project management speakers who specialize in AI?

Yes, Biren Parekh is widely acknowledged for his impactful talks and thought leadership. He is a trusted voice in both traditional project methodologies and emerging technologies. As a project leader and project management speaker, he consistently ranks among the top AI speakers worldwide.

AI-Driven Banking Systems Shaping the Future of Financial Services

The banking and financial services industry is entering an era of intelligence powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI). Banks and financial institutions are no longer just digitizing processes, they’re transforming how they operate, think, and serve.

As digital transformation in the banking sector accelerates, AI has evolved from being a tool of automation to becoming the engine of modern banking software. The impact of AI in finance is visible everywhere from hyper-personalized customer experiences to predictive risk analytics that redefine decision-making in the financial ecosystem.

Why AI Has Become the Embedded Engine of Modern Banking Software

In the past, digital banking meant faster transactions and mobile apps. Today, it’s about intelligence.

AI has become the embedded engine of modern banking software, powering real-time insights and decision-making. Banks use AI to anticipate customer needs, detect fraud, assess creditworthiness, and automate operations. This is the true essence of digital transformation in banking and financial services  where intelligence drives innovation.

Key AI capabilities reshaping the banking sector include:

  • Natural Language Processing (NLP) for conversational banking
  • Machine learning for predictive modeling
  • Generative AI in finance and banking for content creation and strategy simulation
  • Advanced analytics for portfolio optimization and risk forecasting

These technologies make banking software smarter, adaptive, and capable of learning continuously  just like a human financial advisor.

5 Powerful Use Cases of AI in Banking Software

AI is at the core of every modern banking solution. Below are five real-world use cases reshaping the banking and financial services landscape:

Use Case How AI Transforms It Resulting Benefit
Customer Personalization AI analyzes spending patterns and behavior to tailor products and offers. Improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Fraud Detection Real-time AI models flag suspicious transactions. Reduced fraud losses and enhanced trust.
Credit Scoring Machine learning uses alternative data for fairer lending. Faster, more accurate loan approvals.
Generative AI Reports AI automatically creates performance summaries and compliance reports. Saves analyst time and boosts accuracy.
Conversational Chatbots AI assistants handle queries 24/7. Seamless support and lower operational costs.

These applications demonstrate how AI in banking goes far beyond automation, it’s driving digital transformation in banking and finance at every level.

Key Benefits of Integrating AI in Banking Software

The adoption of AI-driven banking systems delivers measurable business outcomes.

  1. Enhanced Efficiency
    AI streamlines back-office tasks, enabling faster loan processing, claims handling, and document verification.
  2. Smarter Decision-Making
    AI-driven analytics guide credit, investment, and risk decisions with higher accuracy boosting performance across the banking sector.
  3. Personalized Customer Journeys
    In retail banking, AI predicts customer needs and tailors interactions, a major driver of emerging retail banking trends.
  4. Fraud Prevention
    Machine learning algorithms analyze massive data volumes to identify anomalies and prevent cyber threats.
  5. Reduced Operational Costs
    Intelligent automation reduces human dependency, cutting costs while improving scalability and compliance.

The impact of AI in finance is no longer theoretical, it’s transforming profitability, resilience, and customer engagement.

Challenges of Adopting AI in Banking Software

While benefits are undeniable, implementing AI in banking software presents several challenges that institutions must address:

  • Legacy Infrastructure: Many banks still operate on outdated systems that limit AI integration.
  • Data Governance: Secure and ethical data use is critical in banking and financial services.
  • Skill Gaps: The digital transformation in the banking sector requires upskilling professionals in AI, data, and analytics.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Banks must balance innovation with strict financial regulations.
  • Ethical and Bias Concerns: Transparent AI systems are essential to ensure fairness in decisions.

Addressing these issues will determine how effectively institutions can leverage AI-driven banking systems for long-term growth.

Top 10 Future Trends of AI in Banking Software Development

The evolution of AI in banking software development is shaping the future of global finance. Here are ten emerging trends to watch:

  1. Generative AI for hyper-personalized financial advice
  2. Predictive analytics for proactive customer retention
  3. AI-powered credit scoring and micro-lending
  4. Autonomous financial advisors (Robo-Advisors)
  5. Voice-activated and conversational banking experiences
  6. AI for ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) data analysis
  7. Automated compliance and regulatory reporting
  8. Synthetic data generation for security testing
  9. Real-time fraud analytics powered by deep learning
  10. End-to-end AI integration across digital transformation in banking and finance

These retail banking trends and innovations point to a future where banking becomes fully intelligent, predictive, and customer-first.

4 Key Takeaways

  1. AI is now the foundation of digital transformation in banking, driving efficiency, security, and personalized service.
  2. Generative AI in finance and banking is enabling new levels of automation, insight creation, and customer engagement.
  3. The impact of AI in finance extends from operational improvements to strategic decision-making.
  4. Future-ready banks that invest in AI-driven software today will lead tomorrow’s financial ecosystem.

Conclusion

The future of banking and financial services lies in intelligence, not just automation.
AI-driven banking systems are powering a new wave of innovation, efficiency, and personalization reshaping how banks operate and how customers interact with money.

As the digital transformation in the banking sector continues, financial institutions must embrace AI not as an add-on but as a strategic enabler.
Because in tomorrow’s financial world, intelligence isn’t optional, it’s essential.

ANI

It was nice to see “Thank you Note” from Agile Network India. 👌

It was an interesting panel discussion with eminent panelists (Sandhya Vasudevan and Ashutosh Dabral) and moderated by Yashasree Barve.

I have been speaker/panelist 🎤of Agile Network India conferences multiple time and I have thoroughly enjoyed taking part as a speaker/panelist due to two reasons

1 – Unique topics
2 – Well organized

Kudos 👍 to Priyank DK PathakNoopur PathakPrashant M J and team for advocating Agile mindset through such conferences and webinars.

#agilenetworkindia #agilemindset #agileleadership #speakers #panelists #agile #thankyou

ANI Event – Business Agility at CRISIL

It was the first time that CRISIL Limited collaborated with Agile open community Agile Network India to conduct a session on Enterprise Agility related discussion. As a part of that, we discussed on various aspects of “How to achieve and measure Business Agility in today’s VUCA world”.

It was an enlightening discussion 🌟whereby CRISIL’s enterprise agile journey and challenges were discussed, along with the industry’s best practices.

Thanks to Prashant Neharkar, Prashant Gulvadi, Deepti Shibad, Nidhi Badani, Nisha P, Kurush Wadia, for helping to organize the event.

The event was also attended by a good number of CRISILtes in-person and virtually.

It was wonderful to meet the LinkedIn family (hashtaglinkedinfam) and Agile coach – Jasmine Moosa. It was quite overwhelming to learn that because of my name in the event; she preferred to come over to CRISIL to attend the event in person. Thanks, Jasmine Moosa.

Such events really help to network with like-minded professionals. 👍

agile agilecommunity speaker author

Anil Kumble

👉It was quite inspiring to meet the legendary Anil Kumble during one event. I am always inspired by leaders 🧑‍💼and honest celebrities 👑 like him, which keeps me going. His perseverance and focus is one quality that inspires me a lot.

Everyone knows this fantabulous ✨cricketer, also known by his nickname Jumbo, holds the record of bowling 40,850 balls in the entire Test career, which is the highest for an Indian and second-highest overall, and he is also one of six bowlers to take 900+ (956 to be precise) wickets in his entire career. He holds several other records, awards, and honors far beyond one’s imagination.

▶️ He once said that no one should tell from your body language, whether you are at “50 for 5” or “200 for no loss”. And I think the same applies to leaders in whatever field you are.

▶️Similarly, among several rituals for preparation, which included training properly, eating right, and sleeping well, “visualization”, he said, was key.  A day before the match, I would think of each batsman of the opposing team, one at a time, and visualize how I was going to get them out. I would picture the fielder’s positions, my bowling technique, the strategy I would use,”

The same applies to leaders to visualize the upcoming situation and define the strategy to make it 💫successful.

Who inspires you most??

#training #event #leaders #strategy #language #visualization #team #motivation #author #speaker #inspirationalleader #career #quality