Xebia Articles

Unleashing AI's Potential: A Conversation with Akhilesh Natani

Written by Vanessa William | Mar 22, 2024 8:43:38 PM

Even in today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a transformative force, reshaping industries and redefining how organizations operate. 

In a recent discussion with Akhilesh Natani, Managing Director of Intelligent Automation at Xebia, we delved into the multifaceted role of AI in driving automation, productivity, and innovation across various sectors.

AI - The Genie of Automation and Productivity

Natani aptly compares AI to a genie capable of granting wishes that improve organizational efficiency and effectiveness. AI's impact on automation profoundly liberates human resources from mundane tasks and helps shift focus to higher-value activities. For instance, AI-powered chatbots are revolutionizing customer service by swiftly addressing inquiries and resolving issues, enhancing customer satisfaction, and optimizing resource allocation. 

However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. AI's capabilities extend beyond simple automation. The right guidance can accelerate innovation, expediting the development of digital products and innovative offerings like building custom applications. Notably, generative AI is accelerating drug discovery, offering unprecedented opportunities for pharmaceutical advancements. AI can also help streamline existing processes. For example, AI can be leveraged to accelerate the data analysis process, helping organizations make sense of large databases rapidly and, consequently, confidently make informed decisions in time-sensitive matters. What's more, AI is not limited to a particular industry, spanning multiple domains, from finance to healthcare. 

Check how Xebia is transforming Automation with the help of AI ยป 


Overcoming Adoption Barriers

While the promise of AI is compelling, it doesn't come without challenges. Organizations face formidable barriers to adoption. Among these barriers, Natani identifies the primary challenges as lack of governance, regulatory non-compliance, and neglect of internal security threats. 

Successful AI implementation hinges on a robust governance framework, aligning AI initiatives with organizational goals and ensuring accountability through formal structures and clear responsibilities. Navigating the regulatory landscape is another challenge and requires close and continuous collaboration between AI practitioners and legal experts to effectively mitigate risks. Finally, internally, safeguarding data integrity and fortifying security controls are imperative to thwart potential threats posed by malicious actors. 

Furthermore, organizations must align their AI strategy with broader technology investment plans to minimize technical debt and maximize long-term scalability and sustainability. 

These are complex challenges, each requiring significant time and resource investment commitment. However, with the right approach, they are not impossible to overcome. 

Transforming the Business Landscape

AI represents a technological advancement and a paradigm shift in how businesses operate and compete. With the right strategies and foresight, organizations can harness AI to unlock new productivity, efficiency, and innovation levels. This will propel them toward sustained success in the digital age. 

By harnessing AI-driven insights, organizations can personalize offerings, enhance customer experiences, and capitalize on emerging market trends. Operationally, AI optimizes efficiencies, reduces errors, and improves risk management capabilities, enabling organizations to adapt swiftly to dynamic market conditions while ensuring compliance. 

However, despite its immense potential, adoption rates vary. Natani explains that only a fraction of organizations achieve AI maturity. Those leading the charge prioritize innovation and invest in AI research and development, positioning themselves as trailblazers in a fiercely competitive environment. 

Take on the AI challenge. Or let us help you. 

Xebia is a trusted advisor in the modern digital transformation era, serving hundreds of leading brands worldwide with end-to-end IT solutions. Housing experts with AI and adjacent technology, Xebia can help you establish your AI use infrastructure for sustained efficiency and growth. 

Learn more about how Xebia is leading the AI Revolution.