How is AI reshaping the role of information teams?
Jinfo Blog

By Anja Chemnitz Thygesen

Abstract

Item

In our new Jinfo report, "Team roles and AI: priorities for information leaders", we explore how AI is influencing the way information teams organise their work, develop skills and support their organisations.

Several important shifts are emerging:

1. A more consultative role

As AI tools make information retrieval easier for end users, information professionals are increasingly moving beyond simply providing answers. Instead, they are helping colleagues:

• Clarify the real problem behind a research request
• Frame better research questions
• Interpret results within the right organisational context
• Develop deeper specialisation in industries, topics or business areas.

In short, the value of the function is moving from information access to insight and judgement.

2. Information teams shaping AI use

The report also shows how many information teams are becoming more involved in shaping AI initiatives within their organisations, for example by:

• Evaluating AI tools and vendors
• Advising on AI-enabled research workflows
• Supporting responsible and effective AI use.

3. New ways of organising teams

Organisations are also experimenting with different team structures, including:

• Centralised expertise
• Embedded researchers within business units
• Hybrid models that combine both approaches.

Each model brings opportunities – and new questions about how teams maintain independence while staying closely connected to business priorities.

4. Skills that matter in an AI environment

Alongside core information skills, the report highlights several capabilities becoming increasingly important, including:

• Professional judgement
• Adaptability
• AI fluency.

While AI can retrieve and summarise information quickly, interpreting reliability, identifying bias and applying insight to business decisions remain critical human strengths.

What does this mean for information leaders?

If you want to strengthen the strategic role of information teams, read the full report "Team roles and AI: priorities for information leaders" for insights, reflections and practical considerations for team roles, structures and skills in the age of AI.

If you want to discuss the ideas in the report or to explore how Jinfo can support you in your day-to-day work, book a call.

Please also send us your feedback about the report, and share this blog with your network.

« Blog