News Summary
Local businesses in Louisiana are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to enhance operational effectiveness. Notable initiatives include M.S. Rau gallery appointing its first AI director and Ochsner Health implementing various AI-driven solutions for patient care. While opportunities abound, challenges remain, especially regarding regulations in sectors like banking. The trend reflects a broader shift towards advanced technology adoption, positioning Louisiana as a leader in AI integration across diverse industries.
New Orleans – Local businesses in Louisiana are increasingly embracing artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, with notable initiatives being led by M.S. Rau gallery and Ochsner Health. This trend reflects the larger shift toward integrating AI technologies to enhance operational efficiency and improve service delivery across various sectors.
In 2025, M.S. Rau appointed Alex Northington as its first director of artificial intelligence. Northington, who previously worked as a tech consultant in the healthcare sector, is spearheading a data mining operation at the high-end gallery in the French Quarter. With a specialized team of three AI experts, M.S. Rau has partnered with Tulane University’s computer science program to harness AI for sourcing valuable art collections and auction items globally.
This initiative at M.S. Rau illustrates how local enterprises in Louisiana are adapting to AI technology, which is engineered to replicate human learning processes and problem-solving capabilities. The release of ChatGPT in 2022 has significantly heightened public awareness around generative AI, prompting diverse businesses to adopt these technologies in various capacities.
As AI becomes more prevalent, companies across Louisiana are striving to integrate it into their operational frameworks. Some businesses, like Entergy Corporation, have established dedicated AI divisions. Entergy’s efforts, led by Chief AI Officer Andy Quick, began in 2023, focusing on enhancing grid reliability and operational effectiveness across four states. Their AI initiatives include predictive analytics to foresee transformer failures from data collected via smart meters, and AI-assisted tracking of regulatory updates from Public Service Council meetings.
Ochsner Health is also making strides in AI, implementing multiple initiatives under Chief Digital Officer Denise Basow. These initiatives include recording patient-doctor conversations and automating patient response inquiries with AI technologies. Partnering with DeepScribe, Ochsner is transcribing these patient interactions, while also collaborating with Latent Health to streamline pharmacy authorizations, improving patient access to necessary medications.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain, particularly in the banking sector. Regulations concerning AI are still developing, according to Gulf Coast Bank president Guy Williams. Additionally, as the legal implications of AI continue to evolve, the New Orleans law firm Jones Walker is establishing an AI practice designed to assist clients in navigating these complexities. The firm has instituted internal guidelines to ensure compliance with privacy standards and to avoid reliance on unverified consumer AI tools for business operations.
Moreover, smaller businesses that struggle to develop in-house AI teams are looking towards software vendors who offer AI-enhanced services. Nees Sus at Susco Solutions highlighted this trend, noting that vendors are adapting their offerings to include AI capabilities aimed at improving operational efficiency.
The diverse applications of AI throughout different industries underscore its potential benefits in streamlining processes. However, this rapid evolution raises important ethical and regulatory questions, underscoring the necessity for AI literacy among managers and employees alike. Industry experts stress the importance of approaching AI adoption with caution and critical thinking, advocating for a solid understanding of practical applications rather than getting caught up in the excitement surrounding AI trends.
As Louisiana businesses continue to innovate with AI, the state is positioning itself as a leader in the integration of advanced technologies in various sectors. The proactive measures taken by organizations such as M.S. Rau and Ochsner Health serve as exemplars within an evolving technological landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- NOLA: Businesses Embrace AI in New Orleans
- Wikipedia: Artificial Intelligence
- GovTech: Louisiana AI Strategy
- Google Search: Louisiana AI Strategy
- Latin Times: AI Tutors in Louisiana Schools
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Artificial Intelligence
- KPEL: AI in Louisiana Agriculture
- Google News: Louisiana AI Agriculture
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
