In a recent LinkedIn post, Jeff Weiner discusses the strategic evolutions of two prominent software companies, Figma and Notion, in response to the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. Weiner highlights how their respective CEOs, Dylan Field and Ivan Zhao, are proactively adapting their company strategies amidst a period of significant change and uncertainty within the software industry.
Figma and Notion’s AI-Centric Product Launches
Weiner points to recent product introductions by both companies as indicative of a broader shift towards AI integration in Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). Figma’s launch of “Claude to Canvas” and Notion’s introduction of “Custom Agents” are seen by Weiner as potentially game-changing developments.
“The launches are representative of the future role of SaaS in an increasingly AI-centric world: adding value to the customer regardless of functional role, starting point, and perhaps most importantly, as agentic infrastructure.”
According to Jeff Weiner, these launches underscore a future where SaaS platforms will provide value across diverse user roles and starting points, with a particular emphasis on becoming foundational “agentic infrastructure.” This suggests a move beyond traditional software functionalities towards platforms that can actively facilitate and automate tasks through AI agents.
Embracing Emerging First Principles
The post contrasts the proactive approach of Figma and Notion with that of some established companies that Weiner suggests are either ignoring or dismissing the impact of AI. In contrast, both Dylan Field and Ivan Zhao are presented as leaders who have clearly articulated their commitment to new, AI-centric principles.
Jeff Weiner notes the distinct, yet forward-looking, statements made by the two CEOs. Dylan Field’s assertion that “Design is the new code” reframes the importance of design in the software development lifecycle, particularly in an AI context. Ivan Zhao’s more direct statement on AI readiness, “If your product cannot be used by agents, I don’t think the future is very promising for you,” underscores the critical need for products to be compatible with and leverage AI agents.
“Design is the new code”
“If your product cannot be used by agents, I don’t think the future is very promising for you.”
As Jeff Weiner observes, these statements represent significant bets on the future direction of technology. While the long-term impact of these new axioms remains to be seen, Weiner commends both leaders for their leadership during a dynamic period.
Leadership in Tumultuous Times
Weiner concludes by acknowledging the prescience and enduring vision of both Field and Zhao, citing their success over the past 12 years. He praises their ability to lead with clarity and purpose, navigating the current landscape of rapid technological change.
“At a time of unprecedented rate of change and uncertainty in the software industry, it’s not surprising to see two founding CEOs with the most prescient and enduring start-up visions over the last 12+ years, Dylan Field and Ivan Zhao, evolving their company’s strategies so quickly and effectively.”
Jeff Weiner’s analysis provides a valuable perspective on how leading SaaS companies are adapting to the AI revolution, emphasizing the importance of strategic foresight and embracing new technological paradigms.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Jeff Weiner on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on February 26, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →