Logicalis research reveals 9 out of 10 global CIOs admit to “learning on the go” when it comes to AI

Logicalis, the leading global technology service provider, has announced the results of new research that finds almost nine out of ten (89%) CIOs are ‘learning on the go’ when it comes to AI. This indicates the pace of AI adoption outstripping organisational readiness.

The research was conducted by Vanson Bourne on behalf of Logicalis, surveying more than 1,000 CIOs across the globe, including Ireland.

The findings reveal that over two-thirds (68%) of global CIOs are concerned about an “AI bubble”, citing this as a risk for their organisation. CIOs in Ireland and the UK are somewhat less concerned than their global counterparts, with one in two expressing the same opinion.

Additionally, CIOs acknowledge a wide range of barriers to effective AI adoption in their organisation, with 88% of global CIOs believing AI ambitions are held back by a lack of internal technical capability. Data challenges (87%) and organisational culture barriers such as change resistance and risk aversion amongst employees (87%) also compound these issues.

The survey also found that sustainability is falling under the CIOs remit with 82% of respondents confirming that energy efficiency is prioritised in AI deployments. Additionally, innovation demands (48%) and risk management and compliance (38%) are now cited as primary drivers shaping AI adoption decisions, broadening the CIOs remit and responsibilities as cross-functional decision makers.

To address the AI skills gap, many organisations are turning to external support, either by outsourcing cybersecurity elements (32%) or bringing in contractors and interim specialists (31%). Nearly all CIOs expect to use Managed Service Partners in the coming years (94%), with almost half anticipating that external partners will deliver core IT services (47%) in the future.

Mairead Malone, Ireland Country Lead, Logicalis UK&I, said: “Nine out of ten CIOs admitting they are learning on the go when it comes to AI technology is a striking finding. This research highlights an industry moving faster than many organisations are equipped to handle. The challenge is no longer whether to adopt AI, but how to do so in a way that is secure, responsible and delivers real results.

“What stands out is the breadth of pressure now landing on the CIO, from AI sustainability measures to skills shortages and compliance. The research established how the CIO role is rapidly evolving, balancing innovation, risk, sustainability, and capability gaps simultaneously. For CIOs in Ireland and beyond, having the right partners and frameworks in place has never been more important, as we advance through the AI revolution, ensuring businesses are fully prepared to deliver success.”

To view the full report, visit https://www.logicalis.com/cio-report

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