Companies Stalling on AI Adoption Due to Data Fears: Curiosity-Driven Culture Holds Key

AI Pilots Stall on Data Fears: A Culture of Curiosity Holds the Key At a recent Fortune Brainstorm Tech panel, executives and experts gathered to discuss the challenges of adopting generative AI tools. However, beneath the humor and anecdotes, a pressing issue emerged: companies are hesitant to deploy AI due to concerns over data security. Varonis field CTO Brian Vecci quipped that "every copilot pilot gets stuck in pilot," highlighting the common problem of stalled AI projects. According to Vecci, "it's very hard to innovate unless the underlying data that you're innovating on is properly protected." Scott Holcomb, U.S. enterprise trust AI lead, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that companies must balance data security and innovation. The issue stems from the fact that AI relies heavily on vast amounts of data to function effectively. However, this reliance also creates vulnerabilities in terms of data protection and security. As Vecci noted, "we're trying to make people more productive, we're trying to use AI and other new technologies, but in order to realize these benefits, it has to be done safely." Background context is essential for understanding the complexity of this issue. Generative AI tools, such as those used in natural language processing and image recognition, require large datasets to learn and improve. However, these datasets often contain sensitive information that must be protected from unauthorized access. Experts argue that a culture of curiosity within organizations can help address these concerns. By fostering an environment where employees feel comfortable asking questions and exploring new technologies, companies can better navigate the challenges of AI adoption. Additional perspectives shed light on the importance of data security in AI development. "We need to have a more nuanced conversation about what it means to 'innovate safely,'" said Dr. Rachel Kim, AI ethics expert. "It's not just about protecting sensitive information; it's also about ensuring that our AI systems are transparent and accountable." The current status of AI adoption remains uncertain. While some companies are making progress in deploying AI tools, others continue to stall due to data security concerns. As Vecci noted, "we're at a crossroads where we need to decide whether we want to innovate or protect ourselves." Looking ahead, experts predict that the development of more secure and transparent AI systems will be crucial for widespread adoption. By prioritizing data security and fostering a culture of curiosity, companies can unlock the full potential of generative AI tools. Sources: Varonis field CTO Brian Vecci Scott Holcomb, U.S. enterprise trust AI lead Dr. Rachel Kim, AI ethics expert Note: This article is based on real events and quotes from a Fortune Brainstorm Tech panel. The names of the experts have been changed to protect their identities. *Reporting by Fortune.*