According to a new report from NTT DATA Inc. a global leader of digital business and IT, there is a growing crisis regarding AI responsibility. Leadership and governance are struggling with the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence by businesses, posing significant risks to investment, security and public trust.
This report, entitled The AI Responsibility Gap – Why Leadership is the Missing Link is based on insights provided by over 2,300 C suite executives and decision makers from 34 countries. It highlights the need for stronger leadership to guide AI innovation and ensure ethical responsibility.
The findings show that 81% of executives admit that AI governance and leadership are not progressing at the same rate as AI technology. This misalignment could stall progress and increase risk. Abhijit dubey, CEO of NTT DATA, stressed that while AI enthusiasm is high, unchecked innovations can become a major threat. He emphasized the need for leadership driven governance strategies to bridge this gap before AI’s trust is compromised.
Dubey said, “The enthusiasm for AI cannot be denied, but our findings demonstrate that innovation without responsibility is risk multiplier.” “Organisations need leadership-driven AI Governance strategies to close this gaps–before progress stalls, and trust erodes.” A significant divide exists among executives–one-third prioritize responsibility over innovation, another third focus on innovation at the expense of safety, while the rest see both as equally important. In addition, 80% of leaders in business say that unclear regulations are slowing AI investment and implementation. Security is a major concern. 89% of executives are concerned about AI-related risk, but only 24% Chief Information Security Officers believe that their organizations have strong frameworks for managing these risks effectively.
Another challenge is workforce readiness. 67% of executives admit that their employees do not have the skills necessary to work with AI. 72% of organizations lack AI policies to guide responsible usage. Sustainability concerns are also on the rise, as 75% leaders report that their AI goals conflict with corporate environment goals, forcing businesses reconsider energy-intensive AI technologies. The report by NTT DATA underscores the need for immediate action. It calls for AI that is designed responsibly, from the start, to ensure security, compliance, transparency. Leaders are encouraged go beyond legal requirements to implement ethical and social AI standard. The workforce also needs to be equipped with the skills necessary to work alongside AI. Collaboration between businesses, regulators and industry leaders are essential in establishing clear global AI governance frameworks.
Dubey warned AI’s rapid progress could outpace responsible government, leading to security issues, ethical concerns, or missed opportunities. Businesses can unlock AI’s potential by embedding responsible AI development through sound management, workforce training and ethical principles. For the full report please visit: https://services.global.ntt/-/media/ntt/global/insights/blog/the-ai-responsibility-crisis-why-executive-leadership-must-act-now/the-ai-responsibility-gap-why-leadership-is-the-missing-link.pdf
