Automation enhances an organization’s efficiency and reduces operational costs. As automation becomes embedded in the technology-led business, a recent survey by Gartner found that 80% of executives think automation can be used in any business decision-making. The survey also showed how organizations are growing their use of AI as part of their automation plans.
- One-third of organizations are applying AI across several business units.
- On average, 54% of AI projects make it from pilot to production.
- Talent is not a significant barrier to AI adoption, with 72% of executives reporting that they have or can source the AI talent they need.
“The survey has shown that enterprises are shifting away from a purely tactical approach to AI and beginning to apply AI more strategically,” said Erick Brethenoux, distinguished VP analyst at Gartner. “For example, a third of organizations are applying AI across several business units, creating a stronger competitive differentiator by supporting decisions across business processes.”
Organizations Still Challenged to Move AI From Pilot to Production
The Gartner survey showed that, on average, 54% of AI projects make it from pilot to production. This is a small increase from the Gartner 2019 AI in Organizations Survey, which reported an average of 53% of AI projects that make it to production.
40% of organizations surveyed indicated they have thousands of AI models deployed. This creates governance complexity for the organization, further challenging data and analytics leaders’ ability to demonstrate return on investment from each model.
Talent Not a Significant Barrier to AI Adoption
While relevant talent lacks are often assumed to impact AI initiatives, the survey saw it is not a significant barrier to AI adoption. 72% of executives reported that they have or can source the AI talent they need.
AI Security and Privacy Concerns Misplaced
Security and privacy concerns were not ranked as a top barrier to AI adoption, cited by just 3% of executives surveyed. Yet, 41% of organizations reported they have previously had a known AI privacy breach or security incident.
When asked which parties the organization was most worried about regarding AI security, 50% of respondents cited concerns about competitors, partners or other third parties, and 49% were concerned about malicious hackers. However, among organizations who have faced an AI security or privacy incident, 60% reported data compromise by an internal party.
Gartner analysts are discussing the keys to successful AI implementations and barriers to AI operationalization during the Gartner Data & Analytics Summit in Orlando through Wednesday.
