Gartner has identified three areas for data and analytics (D&A) leaders to focus on to scale artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives within their organizations. According to the firm, poor data quality remains a primary challenge in AI deployment, requiring leaders to concentrate on business outcomes, D&A capabilities, and behavioral change. These findings will be discussed at the Gartner Data & Analytics Summit, scheduled for May 12-14 in London.
Carlie Idoine, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, stated that AI is central to enterprise planning, with more than half of CEOs believing it will significantly impact their industry in the next three years. She emphasized that D&A leaders are well-positioned to influence business outcomes due to their close alignment with AI technology. Gareth Herschel, also a Vice President Analyst at Gartner, added that leaders must prioritize trust, adaptability, and workforce development to navigate AI advancements effectively.
To drive business outcomes, Gartner advises D&A leaders to focus on building trust in AI by establishing trust models that assess data quality and risk. They should also consider monetizing AI-driven productivity improvements while effectively communicating AI’s value, including its cost, governance, and impact on operations.
Regarding D&A capabilities, Gartner highlights the importance of an adaptable AI technology ecosystem. Herschel noted that while the debate between integrated technology stacks and best-of-breed solutions is longstanding, the decision-making dynamics have evolved. Leaders are encouraged to create modular, open ecosystems, ensure data is AI-ready and reusable, and explore AI agents that can adapt dynamically.
On behavioral change, Gartner stresses the need for organizations to address human factors in AI adoption. Idoine noted that AI is transforming enterprises, but people engage with data differently, requiring tailored approaches to change management. Gartner recommends fostering AI literacy through training, developing new roles to support AI-driven change, and enhancing collaboration across disciplines, including security and software engineering.
Gartner also offers the CDAO Effectiveness Diagnostic, a tool designed to help Chief Data and Analytics Officers evaluate their leadership effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
