Recent research highlights that British businesses are facing substantial challenges in realizing the potential benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) due to a skills gap among their workforce. According to a survey conducted by NTT Data, 59% of companies in the UK and Ireland believe their employees lack the necessary skills to leverage AI effectively.
Interestingly, this issue is compounded by the fact that over a quarter (27%) of organizations have yet to establish dedicated generative AI teams, placing them 10% higher than the global average.
The Struggle for Competitive Edge
Yutaka Sasaki, CEO of NTT DATA Group, noted that as companies advance beyond initial experiments with AI, there is a risk of falling behind. He stated, ‘As we move beyond experimentation, a tension emerges: move too fast, and we risk unintended circumstances; move too slow and we fall behind.’
Moreover, almost all companies (99%) surveyed intend to increase their investments in generative AI. They hope the technology will significantly impact productivity, efficiency, compliance, and overall business processes.
However, 67% of respondents acknowledge that their workers lack the right skills for generative AI engagement, and a staggering 72% admit to not having any usage policy for the technology. Additionally, companies are urging the government to provide clearer regulations regarding AI.
Infrastructure Challenges
Obstacles aside from the skills gap also hinder the adoption of AI. A significant 90% of respondents indicated that outdated infrastructure limits their ability to utilize AI effectively, with many recognizing that cloud-based solutions are essential for overcoming these challenges.
Sasaki emphasized the necessity for strong foundational structures before companies can fully invest in AI technologies, stating, ‘The future is clear. Generative AI is more than just another tool – it’s a transformative force.’
- 0 Comments
- Business Strategy
- UK