When I was at the MIT Sloan CIO Symposium in May, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between the conversations around generative AI and the discussions about cloud technology that took place around 2010 at the same event.
Back then, just as now, there were concerns about governance, security, and the responsible use of new technology. However, in 2010, the IT landscape was on the cusp of consumerization, with employees seeking the same seamless experience at work that they had at home. This led to the rise of “shadow IT,” as employees sought solutions outside of the traditional IT framework.
Fast forward to today, and CIOs understand that simply saying no to generative AI is not a viable option. Employees will find a way to use these tools regardless, so the focus has shifted to enabling responsible use of the technology. Security, compliance, and data controls remain top priorities for large organizations adopting generative AI.
At the conference, CIOs emphasized the importance of governance and ensuring that employees understand how to best utilize these tools. Rather than being the gatekeepers of technology, CIOs are now focused on enhancing the customer experience with AI and leveraging it to improve core capabilities and service offerings.
Angelica Tritzo from GE Vernova highlighted the need for a deliberate approach to implementing generative AI, emphasizing the importance of understanding the technology’s full potential and aligning costs and benefits. By experimenting with pilots and learning from the process, organizations can determine what works best for them and their employees.
Chris Bedi from ServiceNow stressed the importance of preparing employees for the AI-driven future by providing learning pathways and training programs. As employees increasingly demand access to AI tools, organizations must ensure that their workforce is AI-literate and equipped to make the most of these technologies.
Overall, the shift in mindset among IT executives signals a recognition that locking down generative AI is not a sustainable approach. Instead, organizations must empower their employees to use these tools effectively and safely to drive innovation and stay competitive in an evolving technological landscape.
