DAM Los Angeles 2026

Digital Asset Management professionals are bombarded with conflicting messages: “AI will solve all your metadata problems,” or “If the AI isn't native to your DAM, it doesn't count.” The reality is far more nuanced.

Join Jake Athey and Rachel Kohl from Acquia as they dismantle the myths defining the current landscape. We will move beyond the binary of “AI vs. Manual” workflows to explore the practical spectrum of modern DAM management.

This session will guide you through:

• The “Right Tool” Reality Check: We will demonstrate why AI isn't always the best solution for metadata—and show cases where standard automation (or human governance) still reigns supreme.
• The AI “Co-Admin”: Learn how to use the CRIT framework (Context, Role, Interview, Task) to turn external LLMs into strategic partners for analyzing data exports, prototyping data models, and cleaning data—without needing complex integrations.
• Inside vs. Outside: How to find the perfect balance between native DAM AI features and external tools to drive true efficiency.

Forget the “all or nothing” hype. Leave this session with a clear decision-making framework for when to use AI, when to use a rule-based script, and how to captain the ship.

Key Takeaways

• Myth-Busting Metadata: Why AI is not the silver bullet for every task (and how to identify when standard automation works better).
• Mastering the CRIT Framework: A practical guide to prompting LLMs to act as your “Co-Admin” for strategic analysis and prototyping.
• The Hybrid Strategy: How to leverage the strengths of both internal DAM features and external AI tools.