Karthik Kripapuri, CEO of Promevo, explains how companies are achieving real ROI from AI by leveraging Google’s rapidly advancing AI tools—especially Gemini—while emphasizing the importance of strong data foundations and starting with focused, practical use cases. He highlights that organizations succeed with AI by adopting a methodical, incremental approach and fostering a culture of experimentation, rather than attempting large-scale overhauls all at once.
In this interview, Karthik Kripapuri, CEO of Promevo, discusses how companies are finding real value from cutting-edge AI models, particularly through their close partnership with Google. He acknowledges that while Google was initially slow to respond to the generative AI wave led by ChatGPT, it has since made significant progress, especially with the development of Gemini Pro 3.0 and its multimodal capabilities. Promevo has focused exclusively on Google’s ecosystem, helping clients adopt and implement Google’s AI technologies, and has conducted hundreds of workshops to drive adoption, particularly around Gemini for Google Workspace.
Kripapuri emphasizes that the biggest challenge for organizations seeking to leverage AI is data integrity. Many companies still struggle with siloed data and lack a clear “single source of truth,” which limits the effectiveness of AI models and agents. He draws a parallel to the digital transformation challenges of the 1990s, noting that once organizations align on data definitions and accessibility, AI can provide much more valuable insights and automation. Promevo’s consulting services are designed to help clients overcome these hurdles and maximize the benefits of AI.
The conversation highlights the tangible improvements in AI models, such as better handling of complex queries, reduced hallucinations, and increased transparency. Google’s Vertex AI platform allows users to “dial in” the level of creativity versus accuracy, providing more control and trust in the models’ outputs. Kripapuri notes that most companies benefit from consuming AI as a managed service rather than building their own models from scratch, as Google’s infrastructure, security, and ongoing improvements make it a practical choice for the vast majority of use cases.
Kripapuri shares practical examples of how Promevo and its clients are realizing ROI from AI. He describes internal initiatives to automate tedious tasks, such as financial close processes and Chromebook return management, freeing up employees’ time for higher-value work. He stresses that successful AI adoption starts with small, well-defined use cases and clear KPIs, rather than attempting to overhaul everything at once. Companies that approach AI methodically and secure buy-in from key stakeholders see the greatest returns, while those that try to “boil the ocean” often struggle to achieve meaningful results.
Looking ahead, Kripapuri believes AI will fundamentally change knowledge work by enabling employees to interact directly with organizational data and automate routine tasks, leading to more efficient and strategic workdays. He cites examples from Promevo’s own operations, such as using Gemini to rapidly generate strategic plans and OKRs. The company fosters a culture of learning and experimentation, encouraging employees to identify and prototype AI use cases. Kripapuri concludes that while the AI landscape is evolving rapidly, organizations that embrace change and focus on practical, incremental adoption will be best positioned to thrive.