AI Transformation Journey at VIVEST: A CIO’s Experience
16 July 2025
Introduction: What This Case Tells Us
In October 2024, VIVEST launched a top-down AI transformation program that quickly evolved into something larger than technology. This wasn’t about checking boxes or experimenting with hype-driven tools — it was about rethinking how people work, how value is created, and how digital change can be embedded sustainably across departments.
The company selected Microsoft Copilot as its strategic GenAI platform due to its full compatibility with their Microsoft Azure infrastructure, native security controls, and ability to integrate into daily workflows. But the transformation wasn’t smooth or linear. It included missteps, iterations, and the realization that enabling people mattered more than choosing the perfect tool.
Over 12 months, the initiative was shaped by hands-on mentoring, guidance from KPMG, and a focus on measurable ROI. What emerged was not just a new system — but a replicable model for enterprise-level AI enablement.
The Beginning: Setting the Direction and Building Vision
AI adoption began with establishing a central AI Committee. Their first challenge was choosing the right technology. VIVEST analyzed five major platforms: OpenAI, Copilot, DeepSeek, Gemini, and Qwen. The process included proof-of-value evaluations and cross-industry benchmarking.
Commentary:
Mr. Galho emphasized that "AI is not about hype, it's about fit." Because VIVEST’s ecosystem was already on Microsoft Azure, Copilot became the clear winner — not only for its seamless integration but also for lower operational risk and easier internal deployment.
Trial Period: From Tool Testing to Understanding Value
In early 2025, selected “champion users” received access to ChatGPT, Copilot, and DeepSeek to validate their fit with real business processes. However, results were mixed: while ChatGPT showed high user engagement, Copilot's corporate value wasn’t well understood.
Example:
Galho admitted a key misstep — assuming users knew how to leverage Copilot’s enterprise features. Without initial assessment, training failed to produce ROI, and some participants didn’t even activate their licenses.
Lesson:
GenAI is not plug-and-play. It requires structured onboarding tied to real business outcomes, not curiosity.
Fixing the Mistakes: From Classroom to 1-on-1 Mentoring
Realizing the gap, VIVEST replaced mass training with 1-on-1 mentoring sessions using a “Tool Kit AI,” which included security architecture, ROI examples, and use-case walkthroughs.
Additional Detail:
Each session explained how Copilot leverages both internal Microsoft data and company-specific content to create an “AI personality” for VIVEST — dubbed Ismarch Corporate. This approach helped shift perception from generic tool to strategic asset.