Research reveals rise in Gen-AI use but highlights concerns

Generative artificial intelligence (Gen-AI) is emerging as a key driver for enterprise-wide decision-making, according to research by Stratio BD. The study, which surveyed C-suite executives and IT decision-makers in the UK, Spain, and Latin America (LATAM), revealed that 75% expect to increase their use of Gen-AI tools within the next year. Additionally, 25% plan to integrate Gen-AI into their core processes within the next six months.

Despite the growing adoption, concerns about accuracy and security continue to pose challenges. The survey indicated that while 75% of respondents are enthusiastic about increasing Gen-AI usage in their organisations, only 29% have already implemented it into core processes. Moreover, 11% of IT decision-makers reported no plans to use Gen-AI at an organisational level.

Óscar Méndez, CEO and Founder of Stratio BD, highlighted the gap between understanding and implementation. "This disconnect between organisational understanding of Gen-AI and its active implementation shows that businesses are not yet fully accessing the true benefits of Gen-AI. Our research finds that almost all of those surveyed (99%) agree that organisations are actively missing out on opportunities by not using Gen-AI, particularly surrounding automation (63%), generating new ideas (59%), and optimising operations (52%). This could represent a significant competitive advantage, which business' competitors may be swift to exploit," he said.

The research, detailed in a whitepaper titled "Productivity, Performance, and Potential: Generative AI In Action," underscores the optimism among business leaders. Three-quarters of those surveyed have a clear view of what Gen-AI could achieve for their organisations. Two-thirds believe senior leadership is well-informed about how the technology can benefit their business. Moreover, 40% believe Gen-AI will allow employees to focus more on strategic areas by automating routine tasks.

However, implementation remains a hurdle. Méndez added, "These lingering worries over privacy and security remain despite the leaps forward which AI technology has recently made in tackling these issues. While concerns persist regarding data accuracy and quality for informed decision-making, our findings underscore the business imperatives for enterprise-level solutions that ensure the precision and security of Gen-AI generated data. Those responsible for AI and data insights within their organisations are very aware that without such measures, the transformative potential of this technology to feed business success will remain unrealised."

The survey findings also pointed to the benefits of Gen-AI in terms of efficiency. Three-fifths of those not using Gen-AI were merely satisfied with the time taken to complete data queries, while 92% of those using the technology were either very satisfied or satisfied. Yet, residual concerns regarding data accuracy were the most frequently cited obstacles, accounting for 38% of responses, followed by concerns over data quality (31%) and issues related to bias and privacy (28%).

This comprehensive study helps map the current state of Gen-AI adoption globally and highlights the potential benefits and barriers to its implementation. As businesses continue to explore and understand the technology, addressing security and accuracy concerns will be crucial for widespread adoption and optimisation.

The full report, which provides further sector-specific insights, is available through Stratio BD.