How Viva inspired 100% of its Executive Assistants into AI builders with Zapier

Viva, co-founded by Adnan Khan, has implemented a transformative initiative to integrate AI into the daily workflows of its Executive Assistants (EAs), emphasizing skill development over revenue expansion. The project began with each EA creating a single Zap to automate part of their workflow, leading to a cultural shift within the company as EAs transitioned from mere consumers to creators of automation. Inspired by Zapier's AI adoption, Viva established an AI competency framework and a learning path, encouraging EAs to develop from "explorers" to "builders." This initiative included daily office hours for mentorship and the creation of a repository of EA-specific use cases, which facilitated the sharing and adaptation of workflows. The practical impact is evident in tasks like pre-meeting briefing generation and resume formatting, significantly reducing time and effort while enhancing efficiency and creativity. The company’s approach has not only improved operational efficiency but also reshaped its culture, fostering a proactive attitude toward problem-solving and innovation in AI application.