State of the Enterprise and the CIO, with Unisys CEO
Aug 14, 2024
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Peter Altabef, the Chair and CEO of Unisys, discusses how AI is revolutionizing enterprise technology. He emphasizes the role of CIOs in driving AI initiatives and fostering collaboration across departments. Altabef highlights Unisys's disciplined approach to AI investment that aligns with business goals. The conversation touches on the transformative potential of quantum computing, the importance of cultural change during AI adoption, and the need for transparency in organizational dynamics. He also stresses the value of servant leadership and adaptability for career success.
AI is transforming enterprise strategies by fostering innovation, enhancing customer engagement, and significantly increasing productivity in application development.
CIOs play a critical role in driving AI initiatives by translating complex technical concepts into business language and promoting cross-departmental collaboration.
Deep dives
Investments and Projects in AI
Unisys is actively engaged in AI, with 135 ongoing projects that are categorized as either proof of concept, pilot, or in production, each making up about a third of the total. The company approaches AI through three main lenses: integrating AI into client solutions, enhancing internal service delivery via AI, and improving back-office functions. A notable increase in productivity has been seen in application development, where code generation using generative AI has made teams significantly more efficient. This structured investment in AI reflects a concerted effort to integrate advanced technologies across various operational aspects.
Driving AI Adoption and ROI
To effectively manage AI investments, Unisys has established an 'investment kitty' for business teams, promoting the idea that AI funding should come from existing budgets wherever possible. This method encourages careful consideration of new investments against the least valuable projects, rather than the most critical ones, fostering a more disciplined approach to budgeting. Furthermore, the regular reporting on AI projects to the CEO enhances visibility and accountability, emphasizing the importance of achieving return on investment for every AI initiative. This framework helps ensure that AI does not become a mere trend but is integrated strategically into business operations.
C-Level Engagement and Imagination
The conversation around generative AI has shifted the focus from traditional technology discussions to innovative possibilities, engaging C-level executives across various sectors. As companies realize the potential for revenue generation and client engagement through AI, there is a notable increase in interest from positions beyond the CIO role, including CEOs and chief commercial officers. By fostering a culture of education around generative AI, Unisys has empowered employees to explore its applications, enhancing their imaginative capacity to envision solutions that drive business value. This strategic approach to AI signifies a transformative change in how leaders perceive technology's role in fostering innovation.
CIOs and the Evolving Role in AI
The role of CIOs is evolving as they become pivotal in translating complex technical language into business-friendly terms that resonate with other executives. This shift presents a unique opportunity for CIOs to step into a more visible role within the C-suite, emphasizing their importance in driving strategic initiatives related to AI. By dedicating a portion of their time to external engagement with clients and peers, CIOs can gain valuable insights that inform their internal strategies and communication approaches. This strategic outreach is essential for CIOs to align technology with broader business objectives and enhance their organizations' innovative capabilities.
In CXOTalk episode 849, Michael Krigsman hosts Peter Altabef, Chair and CEO of Unisys, to explore the transformative role of AI in enterprise technology and the pivotal role of CIOs in this evolution. Altabef provides insights into how Unisys integrates AI to improve client solutions and internal operations while emphasizing strategic investment and leadership.
Episode Highlights:
AI as a Catalyst for Innovation: Learn how AI, especially generative AI, reshapes business strategies, fosters innovation, and redefines customer engagement.
CIO Leadership in AI Transformation: Discover how CIOs are crucial in driving AI initiatives, managing risks, and fostering cross-departmental collaboration to achieve success in a rapidly changing landscape.
Disciplined AI Investment: Understand Unisys's strategic approach to AI investment, focusing on projects that align with business objectives and deliver measurable ROI.
Cultural and Leadership Transformation: Explore the importance of cultivating a culture of continuous learning and servant leadership to navigate AI-driven changes successfully.
Future Technologies: Explore the potential of emerging technologies like quantum computing to expand AI capabilities and drive future growth.
About the Participants:
Peter Altabef: Chair and CEO of Unisys, with a wealth of experience in leading technology companies.
Michael Krigsman: Industry analyst and CXOTalk host, recognized for his digital transformation and leadership expertise.
🔷 Read transcript on CXOTalk site: https://www.cxotalk.com/episode/state-of-the-enterprise-and-the-cio-with-unisys-ceo