Two years after the launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT and the explosion of Artificial Intelligence in the public awareness, AI continues to revolutionize the business landscape. Here are some key growth areas for enterprise AI, predictions of what to expect in the coming years, and why having the right in-house expert can help you manage your AI-driven transformation.
- E-Learning. The education sector is seeing rapid AI adoption, with strong traction in educational technology and e-learning. On the publisher side, new Generative AI tools that rapidly convert text into video, audio, and visuals allow creators to quickly and efficiently transform static written content into dynamic, interactive, and immersive learning experiences. On the learning side, embedded AI tools enable students to ask questions and receive tailored guidance, even when they’re studying after hours or on their own. AI also supercharges adaptive learning tools and interactive content that can adjust on the fly to individual needs and performance.
- Virtual Private GPT. Many organizations have recognized that while their employees are excited about AI tools, putting proprietary content into consumer-facing AI products (e.g., ChatGPT) is a massive security risk. Building secure, accessible systems therefore is key, so organizations are creating private AI systems that leverage internal documents. Employees can enjoy custom, secure GPT-like tools that offer the benefits of GenAI without compromising sensitive information.
- Data-Heavy Organizations. Many businesses are still heavily reliant on Excel, without truly leveraging the power of their existing data. These organizations can use AI tools to quickly move beyond static spreadsheets to real-time dashboards and insights. By training AI agents to specialize in particular domains, comprehensive AI tools can retrieve, analyze, and combine data from disparate internal and third-party sources, and then add layers of understanding that make it actionable.
- Accelerated Pace of Innovation. Think about Moore’s Law, the principle that computing power roughly doubles every two years. In AI, we’re seeing an inverse of Moore’s Law — innovation is happening at an increasingly rapid pace. Siri was just the appetizer; future AI developments will help manage not only our work but also our lifestyles, becoming assistants that help us automate repetitive and stressful tasks so we can focus on the more enjoyable and rewarding ones instead.
- Workforce Transformation. AI allows employees to magnify, amplify, and enhance their work, securing their roles as increasingly valuable and productive contributors. AI isn’t going to take jobs away, but those employees who adopt and integrate AI into their work will leap ahead of those who don’t. Similarly, employers that provide their employees with the necessary AI tools and training will begin to reap the rewards of efficiency and better-informed decision-making.
- Regulation Uncertainty. Expect governments to review and decide how to respond to the growth in AI. Will they under-regulate, leading to unchecked risks, or over-regulate, potentially stifling innovation?
Over the next few years, large organizations will increasingly require and rely on an in-house expert: The Chief AI Officer (CAIO). The CAIO bridges the gap between business objectives and the complexities of AI technology, driving tangible outcomes. This role helps organizations avoid common pitfalls and achieve successes.
- Successful Prototypes. The CAIO ensures that the organization’s AI initiatives are focused on solving the right problems, using the right technology, and are aligned with the organization’s strategic direction. This is essential for successful prototypes and implementations.
- Connected Decision-Makers. The CAIO effectively communicates strategic value across departments and to the C-Suite leaders, ensuring continued alignment with and support for AI initiatives.
- Keeping Up with Rapid Developments. AI is developing so quickly that it’s practically a full-time job just to stay informed. A CAIO is dedicated to tracking the latest technologies, regulations, and emerging trends, ensuring that the enterprise adapts effectively and appropriately.
The CAIO role will evolve over time. In the next 2 to 3 years, as organizations become more familiar the technology, these responsibilities may even be absorbed into the roles of the CTO or Chief Product Officer. For now, though, the CAIO is crucial for bridging the gap between technology, business, and strategic execution.
AI is already delivering enhanced experiences and real value for companies in cutting-edge fields, and the rapid advances in the technology will offer new opportunities across the board. It’s important that organizations be prepared to embrace it, to have the right people and processes in place, and to stay nimble over the coming years.
Erik Schwartz is the Chief AI Officer at Tricon Infotech. Find him on LinkedIn or at [email protected].
