Unification and flexibility. These are the two primary drivers behind the latest data and AI trends, according to Google thought leaders.
Google recently released its 2023 Data and AI Trends Report, showing that companies worldwide are grappling with how to unify their data so it’s more accessible, secure, and useful.
According to the report, just over 80% of organizations aim to fully integrate all capabilities supporting their data and AI workflow into their cloud platform by 2026. From ditching data silos to strengthening security, Google outlines 5 key strategies for making this happen.
1) Data integration
Data doesn’t operate in a vacuum, and neither does your business. Recognizing the importance of seamless data sharing, Google aims to simplify data integration so organizations can collaborate and communicate better.
Using a unified data cloud, where information is located on a common infrastructure throughout the data lifecycle, eliminates data silos and improves data governance. This trend has been widely adopted in the retail, manufacturing, and financial services industries to strengthen relationships with suppliers, partners, and customers.
2) Open data ecosystem
More organizations are leveraging the power of open-source software and APIs to speed up development and have access to a wider range of technologies.
Using an open data ecosystem in this way allows for more choice, faster time to market, and improved ROI - ultimately making organizations more competitive as they reap the rewards of collaborative innovation.
Google predicts that more than 70% of new apps will be built on open source databases and says 78% of executive management believe using external data is a critical competency for their enterprise.
3) AI readiness
AI adoption is continuing at a breakneck pace, with Google predicting that by 2025 at least 90% of enterprise applications will include some aspect of AI technology.
Most organizations have already integrated some form of AI or Machine Learning (ML) in their workflows to improve efficiency and solve real-world problems. To help accelerate adoption, Google recommends bridging the AI/ML skills gap with employee training, starting with smaller, “quick win” projects and using established templates.
4) Rethinking business intelligence
Business Intelligence (BI) is key to improving decision-making, finding new markets, and engaging new customers, but only some organizations fully realize its potential.
That’s beginning to change, according to Google’s research which predicts that the market for data and analytics technologies will soar to $200 billion by 2026.
As companies embrace different ways to collect and categorize BI, Google recommends businesses move beyond KPI to focus on the data that matters - measuring outcomes such as revenue, product development, and supply chain efficiency.
5) Data security and privacy
The rise of data has spurred a corresponding surge in data protection solutions as companies address security gaps and risk management concerns.
According to the report, 77% of organizations are focused on improving their ability to classify data and strengthen their data privacy controls.
One of the biggest risks for companies is unstructured data - information that has fallen through the cracks and isn’t properly secured or classified. To overcome this common hurdle, Google says the first step is improving data visibility by understanding exactly where your data pipelines, silos and storage areas are located.
Following that, businesses should classify their data and then implement consistent controls around its use and access.
Future proofing your business
Change is inevitable, and organizations have to be sure they’re ready for it. Refining their approach to data can help companies meet the challenges of today while planning for future disruptors.
With its ever-evolving ecosystem of cloud-based tools and applications, Google is providing businesses with even more options for integrated, flexible, and unified solutions - ensuring data accessibility without compromising security.
The team at UpCurve Cloud has helped over 5,000 organizations - from a wide range of industries - kickstart their digital transformation with the tech tools they need to maximize their resources and optimize their business processes.
Whether you’re migrating to the cloud, making the switch to Google Workspace, or just considering your options, our Google-certified engineers, technicians and consultants can help. Get in touch today to schedule a consultation or find out more.
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