Do you think data leaders are the best fit for ownership of generative AI at your org? Who is currently leading these efforts and how are you working with them?
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It is a combined effort, mostly data science (models) + digital workplace (bot interface and company wide adoption) teams together. Of course with all other stakeholders involved.
In my opinion, no one should "own" generative AI; unlike its predecessors, this generation of AI is accessible by those on the shop floor, subject matter experts, data leaders and everyone in between, and to fully transform the enterprise, everyone needs to have a stake. ChatGPT being the fastest adopted tool in all of human history proves that point. It is an example of what democratized data tooling looks like when coupled with an accessible user interface. But, I do think that experienced data leaders are in a great position to evangelize, advocate and encourage generative adoption within the enterprise as many of the considerations in the advanced analytics suite will be relevant as this new technology is considered herein.
If an organization has established a Data & Analytics unit and has been focusing on advanced analytics, then that unit is an easy fit. However, it also depends on how well the data unit has been performing within the organization in terms of creating awareness about data's value to the business and its role in establishing governance and making the organization data-driven
It also depends on how the data unit leader is perceived by the business/CXO. If the business sees the data unit leaders as a partner, then the data unit is in a better position to initiate discussions about AI topics. If it has primarily been a unit focused on providing descriptive reports without active engagement, it may be more effective to establish a new unit with visionary leaders.
Additionally, the positioning of the data unit within the organization's structure matters. If the data unit has been successful, influential, and powerful within the organization, it could be the best unit to take ownership of AI initiatives and collaborate with others to realize the value of it.
It also depends on the maturity, size , management/leadership style of the organization. Mature organizations can adopt a federated model to drive AI initiatives within their units to realize the value quickly. If an organization is new to AI, small in size and it is not yet aware of the potential negative implications, it may be advisable to keep accountability centralized until the organization matures in this journey.
For AI adoption to be successful, data , technology , business knowledge serve as foundational elements. Therefore, regardless of which unit takes ownership, the individuals/leaders involved should have a strong understanding of data, technology and business or collaborate closely with these respective units.