Caution still prevails when it comes to the deployment of AI in general. More surprisingly, our study reveals that companies are hesitant about generative AI and even the transformation of data architecture.
While examples of POCs (Proof of Concepts), AI projects, and data-driven strategies are increasing in large organizations, our colleague CIO Online’s survey reveals that, more generally, these topics remain of little interest. 57% of respondents have no traditional AI deployed. But the most surprising finding is that generative AI is not gaining much traction either. A significant majority are simply not interested in it at all, even for testing purposes. Consequently, very few are pursuing RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) or open-source LLM (Large Language Models) approaches.
And the rest follows logically. There is no work on data in preparation for an AI strategy, no specific organization, and no training or recruitment efforts! Less than one in five respondents plan to review their data architecture for AI projects. More than half indicate they have not undertaken data cleaning or moved towards a data lake with this objective in mind. This suggests that the situation may not change in the coming months. Unless, looking on the bright side, companies believe their architecture is already sufficiently prepared. However, one initiative and observation have gained widespread agreement: the necessity to protect data and the increasing involvement of business units.
Our Full Study
Are data and AI strategies thus reserved for only a very small proportion of companies? Or is caution still prevalent with just over 18 months of exploration into generative AI, considering that ChatGPT emerged at the end of 2022? Not to mention the significant costs and associated needs of such projects, which require extensive computing resources and expertise, or the proliferation of offerings. It will likely take a few more months before AI and data utilization become widespread across all sectors and types of companies.
This survey was conducted between June 10 and July 12, 2024, on the CIO Online website. Between 190 and 379 companies participated, depending on the specific questions.