The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has ushered in a new era of innovation and efficiency, moving beyond traditional IT boundaries to become an organisational-wide imperative.

In New Zealand, as in the rest of the world, AI is not merely a technological tool to be used by Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) or Chief Information Officers (CIOs); it is a strategic asset that impacts every facet of a business.

AI's potential to revolutionise industries by automating processes, enhancing decision-making, and fostering new product development necessitates a holistic approach to its adoption. McKinsey Global Institute's report suggests that AI could contribute an additional 1.2% to GDP growth per year, highlighting the economic significance of AI at a macro level. This underscores the importance of AI as a driver of innovation and productivity across various sectors, not just within the confines of IT departments.

In the realm of customer service, AI-driven chatbots and digital assistants are transforming the way businesses interact with their customers, offering 24/7 support and personalised experiences. Marketing teams are leveraging AI to analyse consumer data and tailor marketing strategies, while HR departments are using AI to streamline recruitment and onboarding processes. These examples illustrate that AI's influence extends well beyond the remit of CTOs and CIOs, demanding engagement and collaboration across all departments.

Furthermore, the ethical and societal implications of AI, such as bias, privacy, and misinformation, necessitate governance and oversight that cannot be siloed within the IT domain. Organisations must develop ethical AI frameworks and engage with policymakers to shape regulations that ensure AI is used responsibly and equitably.

To fully harness the benefits of AI, businesses must foster a culture of innovation where AI literacy is promoted across all levels of the organisation. Investing in upskilling and education is crucial to bridge the AI skill gap and prepare the workforce for the AI-powered future. As AI continues to evolve, it is imperative for New Zealand businesses to view AI as a collaborative, organisation-wide endeavour that requires strategic planning, cross-functional coordination, and a shared vision for the future.

AI's transformative potential is not confined to the technical sphere; it is a strategic organisational asset that necessitates an integrated approach. By embracing AI as an organisation-wide initiative, New Zealand businesses can position themselves at the forefront of the global AI revolution, driving growth, innovation, and competitive advantage.

Transparency: this article was written by Justin Flitter, enhanced in Perplexity, then edited and reviewed by before publishing.