As AI tools continue to be leveraged by teams who work in XDEV, so too does the need for all parties to incorporate Emotional Intelligence (EQ) in the process. When navigating tough situations—like repeated bugs, miscommunications, slipping deadlines, ignored feedback, and cultural nuances that aren’t always clear—EQ is the biggest skill that humans need to bring to the table, to bridge the gap of what AI lacks.

In this session, we’ll discuss how AI isn’t ready to be relied upon fully as a replacement for human feedback. However, by combining the power of AI with human EQ, we can create the formula for our “dream teams.” We can lead with EQ, and build our team cultures through open dialogues, problem solving, empathy, peer coaching, and upskilling. AI tools may help us generate data faster, but it’s the human layer that makes the difference.

Attendees of this session will learn how to collaborate better and reduce friction between teams. As we enter a new era of XDEV—one where technical skill is amplified by AI—our real power will come from how we lead, connect, and care. When you think about where to invest your team’s skill in the age of AI, EQ is a safe bet.