A bit of MSP news before we dive into some AI news.
While most SMB owners know AI tools like ChatGPT, there is a gap in understanding their benefits and initiating adoption. However, 94% of SMBs plan to incorporate AI into their operations in 2024, as it can automate tasks like managing employee schedules and tracking key metrics—that last data from Shopify.
According to NTT DATA’s 2024 Infrastructure Lifecycle Management Report, 80% of global organizations believe that outdated technology hinders innovation. The report emphasizes the need for consistent technology infrastructure management throughout its lifecycle and highlights organizations’ challenges in maintaining their technology infrastructure.
According to Canalys, partners in the channel are most concerned about project management and automation. A survey revealed that 61% of respondents identified project management and workflow automation as their biggest business operations challenge, followed by system integrations and API management. Talent acquisition and retention, evolving cybersecurity threats, and growing competition in the MSP marketplace were also mentioned as significant challenges.
A study by Jitterbit reveals that office workers have a positive view of working with AI, seeing it as an opportunity for new skills and professional growth. The report shows that 85% of office workers expect AI to improve their roles, with 96% believing it can enhance their professional skills. While some jobs are seen as at risk, there is a growing understanding that AI complements human efforts rather than replacing them.
There’s more data saying that. According to PwC’s survey of 56,600 workers, nearly half of global workers believe that AI will increase their salary and job security. The survey also shows that the more workers are exposed to AI, the less they fear it, with around 80% of those using AI daily expecting their salary, job security, and efficiency to increase in the next 12 months.
Of course… According to a survey by Bain & Company, a majority of US companies are adopting generative AI tools but are unsure about the value they will bring. Lack of internal expertise is a major obstacle to wider adoption. Concerns about the quality of AI outputs and data privacy and security are also holding businesses back. CEOs need to take ownership of AI implementation and understand how it will contribute to revenue and productivity.
NTT DATA’s report that 80% of global organizations see outdated technology as a hindrance to innovation underscores the critical role of consistent technology infrastructure management. MSPs should prioritize offering lifecycle management services that ensure clients’ technology remains current and capable of supporting innovative initiatives. This involves not just regular updates and maintenance but also strategic planning for future upgrades and technology adoption. Emphasizing proactive infrastructure management can help clients avoid the pitfalls of outdated systems and maintain a competitive edge. That’s table stakes.
Beyond that, while many US companies are adopting generative AI tools, uncertainty about their value and a lack of internal expertise are major barriers. MSPs have an opportunity to provide much-needed expertise and clarity. By developing and offering specialized generative AI consulting services, MSPs can help clients understand and harness the full potential of these tools. Addressing concerns about AI output quality, data privacy, and security will be crucial.
And get your project management house in order. Again, table stakes.