Zensar Technologies: From Living Digital to Living AI

In 2016, Sandeep Kishore took the helm at Zensar, a mid-size Indian software and services company with global presence, as CEO. He spearheaded a transformative journey for the company as it shifted from a legacy IT firm to a key player in the digital transformation space. Recognizing the importance of digital capabilities in a competitive environment, Kishore initiated efforts to upskill employees, developing multiple digital platforms under the Return on Digital® initiative, focusing on new and exponential technologies. This strategy was rooted in Zensar's core value proposition: "Develop internally, then sell externally," which enabled the firm to enhance its internal capabilities to better meet client needs. As the market evolved, Zensar identified the emerging potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and initiated the Living AI project, aiming to establish itself among the leaders in the AI as a Service (AIaaS) space. This case situates Zensar at a critical juncture, reflecting on the successes achieved through the Living Digital initiative while exploring strategic decisions that led to the conception of Living AI. The central question is whether Zensar can effectively leverage its existing business model to pivot to a robust AI-driven future, addressing the complexities and opportunities in the fast-evolving technological landscape.