2024 was the year everyone discovered the magic of generative AI. We saw AI create images, write copy, and even compose music. But that was just the beginning. Get ready, because 2025 is shaping up to be the year of agentic AI – and it’s poised to fundamentally change how businesses operate.
But what does this shift entail? Is it merely the next technological buzzword, or does it represent a more fundamental change? To understand this better, we spoke with Bruno De Deken, managing partner of our AI partner Tensr. His insights, combined with our observations, suggest a clear direction, with Google playing a notable role. Let’s explore what AI agents are and why they matter for your business.
What exactly are these “AI agents”?
We all know AI can generate. But what does it mean for AI to be an agent? The key is action. Agentic AI systems don’t just produce content; they do things. They can:
- Autonomously act: Receive, process information and decide to take a next step.
- Combine insights: Put multiple streams of information together to create a more complete picture of a situation.
- Execute tasks: Interact with systems and data.
As Bruno describes it, an agent is essentially “an autonomous process that receives information, processes it, and does something with it – whether that’s taking an action or providing output.” The key differentiator is this ability to act. An AI agent understands a goal, can plan the required steps, and then interact with different tools or systems to execute those steps.
Google’s approach
This is where platforms like Google Cloud become essential. Google isn’t just building powerful AI models like Gemini – known for being both highly capable and cost-effective. They are also building the infrastructure and tools to make AI agents practical and manageable for businesses.
A key piece of this puzzle is Agentspace. Think of it as a central hub designed to make connecting your AI agents to the tools your business already uses much easier. It provides ready-made connectors for Google Workspace (Gmail, Calendar, Drive) and common tools like Jira, Slack, or Teams.
Crucially, Google is focusing on:
- Orchestration: Helping different agents and tools work together smoothly.
- Simplified Access: Managing permissions and ensuring agents only access the data and tools they’re supposed to.
- Human Oversight: Building in checks and balances. For example, an agent might draft an email or suggest a calendar change, but you still give the final okay before the action is taken. This keeps you in the driver’s seat.
By focusing on integration, management, and control, Google aims to bridge the gap between the concept of AI agents and their practical, reliable use in a business context.
Why now? Potential and perspective
The interest in AI agents stems from their potential to automate more complex, multi-step processes that span various applications. One could envision agents collaborating: one analysing feedback, another identifying trends, a third drafting a response, and a fourth assigning tasks in a project management system.
This potential is considerable. However, it’s wise to approach it with measured expectations. “Like generative AI last year, agents are receiving a lot of enthusiastic attention,” Bruno notes. The enthusiasm is understandable, but practical application requires careful consideration. “The idea that you can just ‘release an agent’ onto your systems and it will solve everything isn’t realistic,” he adds. Simply applying the technology without a clear strategy is unlikely to yield results.
“The most important skill,” Bruno suggests, “will likely remain the same as it is now: How do you use all these tools to effectively generate business value?… translating technology into something practical and valuable while discerning the signal from the surrounding noise and hype.” It’s less about having the most agents and more about applying them strategically to solve genuine business challenges.
The GC innovate advantage
The development of AI agents presents significant possibilities for efficiency and new operational models, alongside new complexities. Successfully navigating this requires more than just technology access; it demands expertise and a well-defined strategy.
“It’s crucial to approach this consciously,” Bruno advises. “Agents are here to stay and will have a big impact. We hope people use them correctly – and that’s where guidance becomes essential.”
At GC Innovate, we work closely with these evolving technologies. We understand both Google’s AI capabilities and the practicalities of integrating them securely and effectively into business operations. Our focus is not just on providing tools, but on partnering with you to apply them purposefully.
Let’s explore how AI agents, implemented thoughtfully, can become a strategic asset for your organisation in 2025. Contact us today to discuss how purposeful AI can support your business goals.
