A recent analysis of Fortune 500 companies’ financial reports reveals that 22% mentioned generative AI, primarily highlighting its associated risks rather than benefits. While 70% of these mentions relate to potential dangers to competitive position and security, only 31% acknowledged its advantages.
A recent survey from UpWork indicates that 77% of workers believe AI tools have decreased their productivity and increased their workload as they spend more time reviewing AI-generated content and learning to use them. Despite 85% of company leaders encouraging AI use, many employees feel overwhelmed, with nearly half unsure how to meet productivity expectations.
Organizations face challenges in balancing human talent with AI tools, as highlighted in CompTIA’s new whitepaper. Key obstacles include increased technology costs, cybersecurity and privacy concerns, and the need for skills development linked to AI implementation.. CompTIA identifies six critical areas for skills-building as AI adoption grows, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning to mitigate costs and enhance cybersecurity.
OpenAI reported that ChatGPT now has 200 million weekly active users, doubling from 100 million in November 2023. This growth is attributed to ongoing upgrades and new features, including expanded access to functionalities previously limited to paid users. Additionally, OpenAI’s enterprise API usage has doubled, with 92% of Fortune 500 companies utilizing its products, reflecting a broader trend of increasing interest in AI technologies across the industry.
Oprah Winfrey will host a special titled AI and the Future of Us on ABC, airing September 12, 2024. The program aims to educate viewers about AI, featuring interviews with notable figures like OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Bill Gates, and FBI Director Christopher Wray. The discussions will cover AI’s workings, potential impacts on various sectors, emerging risks, and ethical considerations surrounding its use.
Why do we care?
When Oprah is doing a special, you know a trend has hit the mainstream. Let me start with the easy part – if I was an MSP today, I would make sure to watch the special, and integrate some of the messaging and concerns into ongoing marketing.
Work back from there – adoption of ChatGPT is significant, and we’re now into the real “how do we make this work” portion of adoption. This is a toolset that requires training and guidance – and thus why it’s distinctly an opportunity.