OpenText and Ponemon Institute Survey of CIOs Finds Lack of Information Readiness Threatens AI Success

Core Insights - The report highlights a significant gap in information readiness among organizations, which hinders their ability to deploy AI securely and effectively [4][6] - IT leaders recognize the importance of reducing information complexity to enhance AI readiness, with 73% identifying it as a key factor [2][7] - OpenText aims to assist organizations in bridging this gap by simplifying information management and strengthening governance [3][5] Group 1: Information Readiness and AI - A majority of IT leaders express confidence in the ROI of AI, yet many organizations struggle with the necessary security and governance frameworks to support AI initiatives [4][6] - The research indicates that unstructured data is a major contributor to information complexity, affecting organizations' readiness to adopt AI [7] - Only 43% of respondents feel confident in measuring the ROI of their information management efforts [7] Group 2: AI Adoption and Challenges - 57% of IT leaders prioritize AI adoption, but 53% find it very or extremely difficult to mitigate AI-related security and legal risks [7] - Less than half of the organizations report alignment between IT security goals and AI strategy, despite a trend of hiring chief AI officers or chief digital officers [7] - Generative AI is gaining traction, with 32% of organizations having adopted it and another 26% planning to do so within six months [7] Group 3: Best Practices for AI Readiness - Organizations that have invested in AI suggest best practices for improving readiness, including protecting sensitive data, implementing responsible AI practices, and strengthening encryption [8][13] - Strong access controls and clear data classification policies are recommended to reduce sensitive data exposure [13] - Regular model bias checks and employee training are essential for ensuring ethical AI usage [13]