The transformational promise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) for enterprises has fueled enormous excitement and massive investment by data executives. One estimate predicts that AI’s contribution to the global economy could reach an extraordinary $15.7 trillion by 2030. That’s more than the current combined economic output of China and India.
Yet, there seems to be a very real chasm between potential and realization. Many data executives find that generating meaningful ROI from AI is still a challenging process, fraught with obstacles. In 2018, Gartner predicted that as many as 85% of AI projects through 2022 would deliver erroneous outcomes due to bias in data, algorithms, or the teams responsible for managing them.
For organizations just getting started on this journey, the experiences of successful early adopters can provide invaluable insight. To that end, our recent deep-dive study targeted ML leaders – data executives and those at the helm of operational models – to understand their recipes for success.
A Panorama of Promises and Achievements
The study revealed that contrary to the perception that AI projects have a high failure rate, many of AI’s “first-movers” are reaping real rewards from their early investments. A staggering 92% of AI team leaders believe that their AI initiatives are delivering meaningful value. This ranges from amplified personalization in customer interactions and reinforced fraud detection protocols, to refined sales and marketing blueprints and sharpened real-time decision-making processes.
Having tasted success in their initial efforts, 61% of respondents plan to double down on their AI investments. But this level of commitment is also likely to carry consequences, inflating competition for critical AI and ML resources in the ecosystem.
The Steep Climb Ahead
Success for these pioneers has not come without challenges. Two examples:
- Tackling the Talent Dilemma: In the world of ML, expertise isn’t just desired – it’s imperative. A significant revelation from the survey was that a substantial 71% of organizations have formidable teams, often exceeding 100 machine learning professionals. However, the real challenge is twofold: not only attracting this elite talent but also ensuring retention and growth.
- Juggling Platform Challenges: A second and equally important challenge is how companies grapple with bespoke solutions. Think of it this way: Numerous organizations, in their bid to stay ahead, have crafted custom ML frameworks tailored to their nuanced needs. This tailored approach, while offering deep customization, is not without its pitfalls. A telling 51% of the respondents were candid about the labor-intensive efforts required for tool integration, citing it as a significant challenge. A nearly identical percentage of respondents flagged the challenges associated with the sheer volume and variety of tools vital for ML processes.
Strategies for a Brighter Machine Learning Future
The survey findings are clear. While the allure of ML is undeniable, harnessing its full potential requires strategic foresight and meticulous planning. Early adopters, despite facing challenges, offer a reservoir of insights that can be immensely beneficial for those embarking on similar journeys. Collaboration with seasoned, expert-rich vendors could be the game-changer, offering the guidance that organizations seek. Furthermore, companies now stand at a decision-making crossroads – whether to invest in a specialized ML production platform or create an in-house framework that must integrate with the capabilities of commercial platforms.
In the ever-evolving world of AI and ML, the path to success is complex and fraught with challenges. Yet, with astute strategies – grounded in the experiences and insights of data executives and AI leaders who’ve paved the way – attaining success is not just a possibility but a tangible goal. The AI and ML journey, in essence, is about continuous learning, proactive adaptation, and strategic investment, with the promise of unparalleled rewards on the horizon.