By Juan Francisco Aguilar*
General Director of Dell Technologies Mexico
78% of organizations in Mexico already consider artificial intelligence (AI) as a key part of their business strategy, according to the study State of Innovation and AI of Dell Technologies. However, this strategic vision still does not translate into advanced maturity in the adoption of AI. 45% of Mexican organizations are in early or average stages of their “AI Journey”, and only 9% claim to be well established with Genai solutions. This gap between intention and execution is due, in large part, to structural challenges, the management and governance of the data being one of the main obstacles.
Similarly, the study reveals that 98% of respondents in Mexico report difficulties in identifying, preparing and using data for cases for the use of AI and Genai. Among the most frequent challenges are:
1) Guarantee the privacy and safety of the data (46%)
2) Lack of internal experience in data science and AI (37%)
3) Integration with existing infrastructure (36%)
4) Intensive data preparation for Genai models (35%)
Additionally, 60% of organizations recognize that their employees do not fully understand how to implement Genai safely. This lack of technical and cultural preparation limits the impact of AI on business. According to Gartner, 61% of organizations globally are rethinking their data and analytical operating model due to AI advance, which reinforces the need for a comprehensive data strategy in Mexico.
To overcome these challenges, Mexican organizations must adopt a data centered. This implies not only having technology, but also with people capable of understanding, using and trusting the data. 98% of surveyed leaders say that their employees need to develop new skills to unlock the potential of AI, highlighting competencies such as critical thinking, creativity, understanding of business processes and data science. This alphabetization in data is key for AI to be ethical, scalable and aligned with the business objectives.
In this context, Chief Data & Analytics Officer (CDAO) leadership becomes essential. This strategic role leads the data strategy, promotes literacy in AI, establishes solid governance practices and promotes collaboration between areas. According to Gartner, 70% of the CDAs already lead the strategy of AI in their organizations, and 49% have the generative AI within its scope of responsibilities. In Mexico, where integration and skills challenges are so marked, CDAO can be the catalyst that transforms the vision into real impact.
In summary, the path to an effective adoption of artificial intelligence in Mexico is full of challenges, but also of transformative opportunities. To close the gap between intention and execution, organizations must prioritize a comprehensive data strategy that combines technology, talent and culture. Data literacy and Chief Data & Analytics Officer (CDAO) leadership are key elements to overcome structural challenges and unlock the true potential of AI.
The success of artificial intelligence in Mexican organizations depends on building a solid base based on data governance, digital literacy and leadership focused on innovation.
About the author:
*Juan Francisco Aguilar is general director of Dell Technologies Mexico
The opinions expressed are only the responsibility of their authors and are completely independent of the position and the editorial line of Forbes Mexico.
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