SAS Survey Reveals Barriers to GenAI Implementation in UK & Ireland

SAS Survey Reveals Barriers to GenAI Implementation in UK & Ireland

(IN BRIEF) The survey conducted by Coleman Parkes Research Ltd. for SAS in the UK & Ireland reveals a strong enthusiasm for generative AI (GenAI) among decision-makers, with 62% of organizations initiating its implementation. However, this enthusiasm is tempered by challenges such as a lack of strategic planning and understanding, concerns over data privacy and security, and insufficient preparedness to comply with regulations and establish governance frameworks. While organizations that have adopted GenAI report significant benefits, including improved employee satisfaction and cost savings, there is a clear need for comprehensive governance and training. The study underscores the importance of strategic deployment, comprehensive governance, technological integration, and expert guidance to ensure successful GenAI deployment.

(PRESS RELEASE) MARLOW, 12-Jun-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — A recent survey conducted by Coleman Parkes Research Ltd., commissioned by SAS, sheds light on the enthusiasm for generative AI (GenAI) among senior decision-makers in the UK & Ireland. While organizations are keen to harness the potential of GenAI, the study highlights several hurdles hindering its adoption.

The survey, which targeted 200 GenAI strategy and data analytics decision-makers, aimed to assess investment trends and the challenges faced by organizations regarding GenAI technology.

Key findings from the study include:

1. Enthusiasm vs. Preparedness: While 62% of organizations have initiated GenAI implementation, concerns arise due to the lack of strategic planning and understanding. Despite high interest, 96% of decision-makers admit to not fully understanding GenAI or its potential impact on business processes.
2. Benefits vs. Concerns: Organizations that have adopted GenAI report significant benefits, including improved employee satisfaction (96%), operational cost savings (90%), and higher customer retention (94%). However, concerns linger around data privacy (75%) and security (72%).
3. Lack of Preparedness: Only 8% of organizations have completed preparations to comply with GenAI regulations, while 95% lack a comprehensive governance framework. Additionally, fewer than 5% provide high-level training on GenAI governance and monitoring.
4. Recommendations for Success: The study outlines strategic deployment, comprehensive governance, technological integration, and expert guidance as crucial steps for successful GenAI deployment.

Dr. Iain Brown, Head of Data Science at SAS Northern Europe, emphasizes the importance of a progressive GenAI strategy to ensure integration, governance, and explainability.

The study’s findings were released as part of SAS Innovate on Tour at The Kia Oval in London, with a global report on GenAI set to be released later this year.

Methodology

The survey was conducted by Coleman Parkes from 14 February to 12 April 2024, and targeted 200 decision-makers in GenAI strategy or data analytics in organisations across key sectors in the UK & Ireland. Survey respondents work across a range of sectors: banking, insurance, the public sector, life science, health, telco, manufacturing, retail, energy and utilities, and professional services. Their job titles include Data Manager, IT Director, and Chief Information Officer. The smallest organisations we surveyed employed a workforce of 1,000—1,999 people and the largest had more than 10,000 employees. The research conforms to the British Market Research Society’s Quality Standards, including ISO 20252.

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Media Contact:

David Smith
+44 1628 490 433
David.C.Smith@suk.sas.com

SOURCE: SAS