Skills and confidence play a major role in the adoption of generative AI, according to IT leaders at IBM Think 2024. They stress the importance of upskilling employees across the entire enterprise, not just within the IT department. Panelists emphasized the need for employees to feel empowered to experiment with technology, such as IBM’s Watsonx platform, while also understanding the security measures in place to protect them.
Jikin Shah, Global CTO of City National Bank at the Royal Bank of Canada, highlighted the significance of having forward-looking policies in place to build trust in technology. He emphasized the importance of providing employees with confidence in the benefits of new tools and the overall technological vision of the organization.
Real-world examples from companies like PepsiCo and the Royal Bank of Canada showcased how a strategic approach to deploying new technologies, such as GenAI, can lead to successful integration into existing infrastructure. Establishing a framework for evaluating and approving AI use cases against responsible principles ensures that AI tools are used in a responsible and efficient manner.
IBM’s Watsonx platform, launched last year, offers a conservative approach to AI technology, catering to customers who prioritize data privacy and legal safeguards. This platform aims to provide enterprises with the tools needed to adopt AI applications in a secure and compliant manner, especially in industries with strict regulations like banking.
While the move to the cloud has paved the way for better data management and security practices, the adoption of GenAI in industries outside the technology sector is still in its early stages. Companies are cautiously approaching AI as they navigate the risks and challenges associated with digital transformation.
Overall, the key takeaway from executive IT leaders is that the successful adoption of generative AI requires more than just the rapid implementation of new technologies. It involves empowering employees with the necessary skills and confidence to experiment with technology, building trust in the benefits of AI tools, and establishing a framework for responsible and efficient AI use across the enterprise. By taking a strategic approach to technology adoption and ensuring compliance with legal and security standards, organizations can maximize the potential of generative AI in driving digital transformation and innovation.
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https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/news/366586052/At-IBM-Think-IT-leaders-pitch-GenAI-upskilling-for-all