Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 111 | Page 26

TRENDING challenges that need to be addressed to realise AI ’ s full potential . well-thought-out data strategy and the right tools to extract actionable insights .
One of the primary hurdles to successful AI implementation is data readiness . AI systems require vast amounts of data to function effectively , yet many organisations are not equipped to manage , process , and analyse this data efficiently .
Another critical barrier is the lack of technical expertise . While AI is a powerful tool , it is also complex and requires a deep understanding of both the technology and the specific business problems it aims to solve .
IFS research points out that only a minority of businesses have the necessary cloud infrastructure and data readiness . This lack of preparedness can lead to AI projects stalling , as they cannot scale without the right data architecture in place .
Industrial AI emphasises the intrinsic importance of internal data . Often , organisations overlook the wealth of information within their own systems , which are pivotal for impactful AI applications .
Without this knowledge , organisations risk deploying AI in a scattershot manner and creating a ‘ Jackson Pollock ’ of AI .
This approach leads to disappointing results and contributes to the perception that AI is overhyped .
To successfully implement AI , companies need to invest in hiring and developing skilled professionals who can bridge the gap between the technical and business aspects . This includes data scientists , AI specialists , and domain experts who can collaborate to design and execute AI strategies that align with business goals .
The disparity between the high expectations executives have for AI and the current reality of its implementation has led to a growing sense of disillusionment . While executives are sold on the potential of AI , the practical challenges of executing AI projects have proven daunting . This misalignment can be attributed to several factors :
Overestimation of AI
There is often a misconception that AI can solve complex problems instantly . However , AI is not a silver bullet ; it requires time , effort , and a clear understanding of its limitations .
Lack of objectives
Many organisations embark on AI projects without a clear understanding of what they want to achieve . This lack of direction can lead to projects that fail to deliver meaningful outcomes .
Christian Pedersen , Chief Product Officer , IFS
By prioritising the integration and analysis of this data , businesses can unlock significant efficiencies and drive innovation . Today , pioneering organisations , such as Rolls-Royce , are reaping the benefits of AI being embedded in their systems , like with its Blue Data Thread platform .
We are seeing others also make leaps whether they are advanced manufacturers , field service operations , or major metropolitan transport systems . However , the foundations to this success are a
Underestimation of change
Implementing AI requires significant changes in workflows , processes , and organisational culture . Without proper change management , these transformations can be challenging to execute .
Strategies for success
To overcome these challenges and fully realise the potential of AI , organisations must adopt a strategic approach . This involves several key steps :
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