AI Impact Comparable to Electricity and Internet, Study Finds

Reading Time
1 min
Published
November 7, 2024
Source
ft.com

Industries

AI Impact Comparable to Electricity and Internet, Study Finds

Key Takeaway

AI is a transformative technology with long-term economic impact across industries, requiring significant investments and societal adaptation.

Summary

AI is a transformative technology comparable to electricity and the internet, with potential to improve efficiency across industries. However, realising its full economic impact may take decades and require significant investments in new processes, skills and business models. Some view AI as part of the ongoing IT revolution rather than a separate phenomenon. Managing the societal changes brought by AI and IT is a key challenge.

Business Implications

**For all industries:** You must strategically invest in AI capabilities to remain competitive. This means allocating resources for AI integration, upskilling your workforce, and potentially restructuring business processes. Don't expect immediate ROI; view AI as a long-term investment. **For IT and software companies:** Position yourselves as AI enablers, offering solutions that help other businesses adopt and integrate AI technologies. **For education and training providers:** Develop programs that address the growing demand for AI-related skills across industries. **For change management consultants:** Prepare to guide companies through the organizational shifts required for successful AI adoption.

Future Outlook

Expect a gradual but profound shift in how businesses operate as AI capabilities mature. You'll likely see the emergence of new AI-centric business models and the potential obsolescence of others. Prepare for increased productivity but also potential workforce disruptions. Anticipate regulatory changes as governments grapple with AI's societal impacts. Stay alert to AI breakthroughs that could accelerate adoption timelines. Consider forming cross-industry collaborations to share AI development costs and benefits. Keep an eye on AI's energy consumption; it may influence your sustainability goals and energy strategies in the coming years.