Growth, not efficiency, is the new AI goal (www.techradar.com)

A recent report from Thoughtworks highlights a significant shift in how enterprises are leveraging AI, with over three-quarters of companies now focusing on growth and innovation rather than merely cost savings. This change is underscored by the appointment of Chief AI Officers (CAIOs) in more than half of surveyed companies, who are increasingly entrusted with managing AI budgets and are pivotal in steering organizations towards realizing new revenue opportunities. With nearly 27% of IT decision-makers projecting up to a 10% increase in revenue from AI initiatives within the next year, the emphasis is clearly shifting towards fostering innovation. Despite the optimism within the enterprise sector, consumer sentiment remains tepid, with 21% expressing skepticism about AI's impact on their lives in the next five years. However, 13% of consumers report having found new revenue streams due to AI, indicating a potential for economic uplift. This dual perspective suggests that, while businesses recognize AI's capacity to augment operations and drive growth, widespread public skepticism may hinder its acceptance. The findings suggest a need for a reevaluation of how AI's success is measured, promoting a broader understanding of its long-term benefits beyond immediate efficiency gains.