Evan J. Schwartz is a visionary technology leader who drives sustainable innovation and customer-centered transformation across global enterprises. As Chief Innovation Officer at AMCS Group, he guides the adoption of cutting-edge solutions in resource recovery, logistics, and sustainability sectors, translating innovative concepts into frameworks that deliver measurable business value.
📌Make sure to check out the book People, Places, and Things: A Framework for a Pain-Free ERP Implementation https://tinyurl.com/5e3crmrt
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👉Evan J. Schwartz is a visionary technology leader who drives sustainable innovation and customer-centered transformation across global enterprises. As Chief Innovation Officer at AMCS Group, he guides the adoption of cutting-edge solutions in resource recovery, logistics, and sustainability sectors, translating innovative concepts into frameworks that deliver measurable business value.
In this episode of The Vault, host Sonja Martinovic sits down with Evan to explore his 35-year journey at the intersection of technology and business, from pioneering early digital connectivity and gaming to leading advancements in AI-driven sustainable operations. Evan shares his passion for creating value through innovative digital solutions, highlights how AI is revolutionizing route optimization, predictive maintenance, and recycled materials logistics, and emphasizes the importance of balancing technology with human creativity.
He also discusses the risks and realities of generative AI implementations, the significance of narrowly defining AI use cases, and the critical role of compassion and fearlessness in leadership during times of rapid technological change. Lastly, Evan introduces his book "People, Places, and Things," a practical framework for pain-free ERP and digital transformation journeys.
👉Key Takeaways
Focus on optimizing the "connected tissue" of processes, especially reverse logistics, to unlock real sustainability and profitability.
Use AI as a reasoning and orchestration tool with clear guardrails rather than relying on broad, unrestricted prompts to avoid costly errors.
Measure baseline performance before AI implementation to quantify true value and prevent chasing infinite, unrealistic solutions.
Leadership requires fostering a fearless, compassionate culture that allows room for mistakes and learning amid rapid technological change.
(00:00) Introduction to The Vault
(01:15) Meet Evan J Schwartz: Innovator and Technologist
(02:25) Evan's Early Journey in Technology
(03:28) The Evolution of Digital Connectivity
(05:57) Creating Value Through Digitalization
(06:51) Sustainability and Efficiency in Business
(10:03) AI's Role in Business Optimization
(17:29) Challenges and Insights in AI Implementation
(20:50) Hidden Risks of External Documents
(21:16) The Siren Song of AI in Business
(22:13) Designing Software with AI
(22:40) The 99 to 1 Scenario
(24:44) The Customer Journey Framework
(29:41) The Future of AI and Human Collaboration
(37:12) Embracing Compassionate Leadership
(38:33) Final Thoughts and Resources
🌎 Connect Evan J. Schwartz
Website https://www.evanjschwartz.com/
LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-schwartz-live
🌎 Connect with Sonja
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sonja.martinovic.1111
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sonjamartinovic
Website: www.sonjamartinovic.com
🎤 Podcast post-production Seamless Multimedia