Britt Technology Impact Series

J. P. Gownder
VP and Principal Analyst
Forrester Research

Emerging technologies can reinvent the nature of work, create powerful new business models, and change companies’ relationships with customers. But the threat of hype looms large, as immature technologies are prioritized over concrete investments or when firms lack the fundamentals to take advantage of emerging tech. How can leaders thread the needle more effectively? Join Forrester VP and Principal Analyst, J.P. Gownder, for a discussion about the strategic impact of emerging technologies and automation, and how these technologies are shaping the future of work.

About Forrester:
Forrester is one of the most influential research and advisory firms in the world. We work with business and technology leaders to develop customer-obsessed strategies that drive growth. Forrester’s unique insights are grounded in annual surveys of more than 675,000 consumers and business leaders worldwide, rigorous and objective methodologies, and the shared wisdom of our most innovative clients. Through proprietary research, data and analytics, custom consulting, exclusive executive peer groups, and events, the Forrester experience is about a singular and powerful purpose: to challenge the thinking of our clients to help them lead change in their organizations.

About J. P. Gownder:
J. P. Gownder is a vice president and principal analyst serving CIOs, CTOs, and other technology and business leaders. He leads Forrester’s research into the impact that automation technologies like artificial intelligence, smart software, robotics, and customer self-service have on the future of work, the future of jobs, and the economy. His research also covers the role that technology innovations play in the workforce, employee experience, and the adoption of emerging technologies. Finally, his research into virtual and augmented reality, intelligent agents, wearable computing, PCs, tablets, smartphones, and the devices and systems that power retail experiences helps CIOs optimize investments and strategies. J. P. has held numerous roles across Forrester since 2005. He has served as vice president of business development in Forrester’s data organization and as a custom quantitative research expert. He has also served as a research director, managing a team of analysts who served consumer product strategists. A recognized thought leader in charting the future course of technology, J. P. has helped clients all over the world build winning technology business strategies. J. P.’s background includes strategy consulting, market research, and data-oriented consulting positions. Prior to joining Forrester, J. P. worked in a variety of management consulting and analyst roles, in both the US and Europe.

A prolific writer and speaker, J. P. has written articles for publications such as Mashable, Information Week, ComputerWorld, Forbes, The Los Angeles Times, and The Washington Post. He has also been quoted in The Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, USA Today, Wired, and many other publications, and he has appeared on NBC television, Voice of America, National Public Radio, and other media outlets.

J. P. graduated from Harvard University with a B.A. (magna cum laude) and an M.A. in political science. He also conducted research at the Harvard Business School.

Read J. P.’s blog posts.

September 10, 2018 | 12:00-1:00pm | Rosenwald Classroom (Byrne)