A new playbook highlights the essential role of Chief Artificial Intelligence Officers, or CAIOs, in guiding public sector agencies as they integrate AI and machine learning into their operations. Authored by analysts from the International Data Corporation, the report outlines four critical actions for responsible AI advancement: assessing AI maturity, addressing risk and compliance, developing an AI-ready workforce, and investing in innovation. Key findings indicate that 39% of agencies with higher AI maturity prioritize generative AI projects, while 36% face a shortage of in-house expertise. The report emphasizes that 69% of agencies collaborate with trusted partners to shape their AI strategies. Additionally, it reveals that 62% of surveyed agencies view strengthening cybersecurity as a primary motivator for AI adoption. The playbook advises CAIOs to focus on immediate use cases with measurable impacts to foster innovation within their agencies.
A recent study by Software AG reveals that half of all employees use Shadow AI or non-company-issued AI tools. The survey, which included 6,000 knowledge workers across the US, UK, and Germany, found that 46% of respondents would refuse to stop using these tools even if their organization banned them. Currently, 75% of knowledge workers utilize AI, which is expected to rise to 90% as AI increasingly aids in saving time and improving productivity. However, the study also highlights that while many employees recognize risks associated with AI use, such as cybersecurity threats and data governance issues, few take adequate precautions.
Knowledge workers are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence to manage their growing workloads, according to a survey conducted by Sapio Research for Wrike. The survey reveals that over half of knowledge workers believe AI has significantly enhanced their job performance. While business leaders estimate that AI supports about 32% of their teams’ workloads, knowledge workers place that figure at only 14%. Despite this support, employees report spending nearly half their week on low-impact tasks, with unnecessary work costing organizations over $15,000 annually per employee. The Wrike report highlights that knowledge workers’ workloads have surged by 31% in the past year, yet only a third say their employers are actively working to alleviate this burden.
Why do we care?
I’m increasingly skeptical of the CAIO role, as I’m focused on how AI is a augmentative technology and not something you do in isolation. That said, the framework here of what an organization needs is spot on.
IT leaders should prioritize developing and communicating AI governance policies that allow for secure, company-approved tools and educate employees on the risks of unapproved AI use. Service providers can offer AI governance solutions that enforce policy compliance, provide alternative sanctioned tools, and educate workers on the implications of Shadow AI. Companies that proactively address Shadow AI could turn it from a risk into an asset by formalizing processes and embracing tools that meet both employee and organizational needs.
