AI technology is gaining traction across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, with many seeing it as a tool to boost productivity. However, concerns around data quality, security, regulation, and more persist, according to research findings. Solarwinds’ 2024 IT Trends Report, titled AI: Friend or Foe?, indicates that IT professionals are cautiously optimistic about the role of AI in their organizations. While almost half of professionals want faster AI implementation, only 34 percent are confident in their databases’ ability to meet the demands of AI. Additionally, only a third trust the quality of data used in AI development.
Abdul Rehman Tariq Butt, Regional Director for the Middle East at SolarWinds, emphasizes that the majority of respondents expect AI to have a positive impact on their companies. To navigate the challenges of AI implementation, key stakeholders, including employees and customers, need to be onboard. The report shows that 52 percent of companies believe their employees are well-prepared for AI, while 42 percent think there is room for training. Moreover, 61 percent of businesses in EMEA have developed frameworks to address AI implementation concerns.
Effective AI implementation also requires the right regulatory frameworks and safeguards. Butt uses the example of ChatGPT usage in the UAE, emphasizing the need for internal regulation to prevent data leaks. Dependability and trustworthiness are essential for AI to benefit organizations. While concerns about job displacement often arise, the study reveals that privacy, algorithmic errors, and security risks are top reasons for negative AI experiences in EMEA.
According to the Solarwinds study, 87 percent of regional respondents support increased government regulation of AI, with security, combatting misinformation, and privacy issues being top concerns for businesses. Striking a balance between data security and ethical considerations is a significant challenge for organizations. Butt advocates for the use of security tools and ongoing training programs to foster a culture of responsibility and ethical behavior in AI programs.
Krishna Sai, SVP of Engineering at SolarWinds, highlights the importance of prioritizing security, fairness, and transparency in AI development. While AI holds promise as a valuable advisor for overworked teams, the rush to implement AI quickly without careful consideration of risks can have dire consequences. Consultation with IT professionals and implementing internal systems can help organizations navigate the complexities of AI implementation successfully.
