Intelligent CIO Europe Issue 84 | Page 32

EDITOR ’ S QUESTION
ANDREA GOZZI , PROFESSOR AT OPEN
INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY ( OPIT ) FOR THE BSC & MSC
IN DIGITAL BUSINESS

For AI adoption to lead to meaningful business success , organisations need to refine their data strategies by consciously focusing on business and not technology . Here ’ s how :

1 . Anchor data strategy to business cases : AI initiatives must begin with well-defined and measurable use cases . For example , predictive analytics can optimise supply chain operations , while machine learning algorithms can improve B2B sales forecasting . Focusing on use cases with clear and quickly measurable KPIs ensures that AI investments deliver real value .
2 . Buy rather than make : Purchasing proven AI and data solutions from established vendors often outweighs the risks and costs of building capabilities in-house . Off-the-shelf solutions enable faster time-to-market , reduce operational burdens , and allow companies to leverage the latest innovations without large investments in research and development .
3 . Engage industry-specific suppliers : Working with vendors that specialise in your industry is critical . These vendors have a deep understanding of industry-specific challenges and regulations , offer solutions tailored to operational needs , and ensure smoother adoption and integration processes .
4 . Harness the power of ecosystems : Enterprises should participate in digital ecosystems that foster collaboration , interoperability , and innovation . These ecosystems provide access to complementary technologies , enable seamless AI deployment , and foster co-creation opportunities that drive business value .
5 . Prioritise cybersecurity and compliance : As data becomes central to the success of AI , robust cybersecurity frameworks and regulatory compliance cannot be ignored . Leveraging AI-based security tools can protect sensitive information , while adhering to standards such as GDPR and industry-specific regulations helps maintain operational integrity and trust .
By structuring data strategies around these pillars , organisations can ensure that AI adoption is not just a technological advancement , but a driver of lasting and measurable success .
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