Conversations with digital and business leaders about agentic AI often revolve around a similar sentiment: we've explored agents, but there's nothing in production yet.

But while everyone talks about AI experimentation, no business can afford to run endless pilots without creating business value. And with experts suggesting professionals who fail to exploit AI risk being left behind, there's an imperative to deploy successful agents sooner rather than later.

Also: How to build better AI agents for your business - without creating trust issues

At online travel specialist Booking.com, Huy Dao, director of data and machine learning platform, is charged with delivering value from AI, including agentic services. He has produced results by taking a structured approach to service rollout, creating targeted solutions to the challenges customers face today and tomorrow.

Dao referred to this approach in a conversation with ZDNET as the "connected trip," in which Booking.com attempts to ensure all elements of a customer's trip, whether flights, hotels, or attractions, are considered as an integrated experience.

Also: Worried AI agents will replace you? 5 ways you can turn anxiety into action at work