Stop Buying AI Like It’s Software: Why Co-Creation Wins

Most institutions are approaching AI with the wrong playbook. Traditional software models—build vs. buy—break down in a world where AI is continuously learning and evolving. Building internally is often too slow, while buying off-the-shelf solutions can lead to rigid systems that fail to adapt.

A new model is emerging: co-creation.

In this session, leaders from Arizona State University, Franklin, and InSync explain why the most successful AI deployments are built through deep, ongoing partnerships rather than one-time procurement decisions. We’ll share practical insights on making this model work, including:

• Designing continuous feedback loops to improve outcomes over time.
• Structuring flexible, AI-native partnerships and contracts.
• Embedding AI into real workflows, not just interfaces.
• Rethinking “ownership” in the context of learning systems.

This session offers a candid look at what is working inside institutions deploying AI at scale. If AI is the fastest-moving capability your institution will adopt, it cannot be bought like software; it must be built together.