“AI cannot replace data analysts”
What potential do you see in the future when it comes to agentic functions in Gemini Sheets? What about, for example, importing data from other sources, creating recurring reports or generally carrying out more actions autonomously?
Birnbaum: We listen carefully to our customers and users and develop exactly what they consider necessary. The agent in Sheets is already capable of running very complex multi-step workflows. And it is – according to our users – extremely competent when it comes to carrying out spreadsheet tasks end-to-end. As for the connectors: These are already available in the alpha version for HubSpot, Salesforce and Mailchimp. We hope to expand this offering over time.
But one thing is also clear: AI cannot replace data analysts. But give them more time for the really valuable tasks. The analysts I work with are far more productive and impactful than ever before. Simply because they are able to delegate uninteresting routine spreadsheet work to the AI. A great example in this context are the visualizations that analysts send to me: These used to be static diagrams, but today they are much more useful and informative as well as explorable “canvases”.
Do you expect that spreadsheets will be used more by agents in the future, while humans will be more likely to define goals and review results? What do you think will be the biggest change in this regard?
Birnbaum: The tasks are unlikely to change much and the use cases for spreadsheets are likely to remain relevant. The biggest change will be the ability to outsource repetitive tasks to an AI model.
Until now, spreadsheets were essentially static containers in which data was stored. I believe that AI can transform spreadsheets into dynamic, localized software applications in the future. And I also believe that this will fundamentally change the way people will use spreadsheets in the future. Employees could soon set up a simple CRM or supply chain dashboard in no time with the help of AI and Sheets. This is an area of investment for the future for us.
AI assistants and agents like ChatGPT or Claude could also analyze data from spreadsheets without users working in a corresponding application. How do you ensure that Sheets remains at the heart of workflows and doesn’t just become part of a broader AI-driven process?
Birnbaum: We are in constant contact with customers and users and it is clear to us that work still takes place within spreadsheets. It can be assumed that the spreadsheet will remain popular in general. If we integrate the AI capabilities that users need directly into the product they are already in, we will transform the way they work.
I think we can be the front end for some great AI innovations and the products that users are used to today. Everything we develop is based on feedback from our users – and they want AI support for their everyday or more complex spreadsheet tasks. With Sheets you get exactly that, today. (fm)
This article is im Original published by our sister publication Computerworld.com.
