AI & transformation - A match made in innovation heaven

In a world of unprecedented disruption and market turbulence, the urgency of enterprise transformation is undeniable. Transformation today revolves around the need to generate new value, to unlock new opportunities, to drive new growth, to deliver new efficiencies. It is about embracing change. 

 A new kind of enterprise is needed in a disrupted world- One that is sustainable, tech-powered, resilient, agile and connected. One that is constantly transforming. One that is powered by AI. 

AI and transformation – The power couple shifting business today 

The AI market is projected to reach a staggering $1,339 billion by 2030, as per Forbes. 

The AI revolution is here, and enterprise transformations will never be the same. Only when embedded seamlessly and intentionally into transformation projects from the start, can AI technologies help organisations streamline the notoriously complex details of enterprise change, cut costs and speed up value creation and time to market. Clearly, AI technologies can play a starring role in enabling successful digital transformation initiatives. 

But getting this powerful couple of AI and transformation to work in harmony will require organisations to reimagine their approach, empower their workforce, and put some long-standing ideas about how to deliver enterprise change in their rearview mirror. 

According to KPMG, companies investing in AI report achieving, on average,15% productivity improvements for the projects they are undertaking. 

We’ve entered a new era where AI is accelerating business transformations across every industry, from telco to banking, to the public sector, retail, and healthcare. It is simultaneously creating new challenges and opportunities and changing how businesses of all sizes define success. CIOs are looking for ways to find AI-optimised value by streamlining operations, elevating customer experiences, and driving innovation in products, services, and business models that keep their companies ahead of competitors. 

While there is no one AI approach for all organisations, we have seen that there is a common journey that all businesses take as they build toward AI success. 

This blog emphasises the significant impact of AI on business and provides insights to guide leaders in navigating AI strategy confidently. It explores four key categories crucial for driving foundational value with AI, empowering leaders to realize success. 

  1. Business Strategy 

Business leaders must prioritise defining business objectives and aligning use 
cases to unlock the full value of AI. By clearly outlining goals and identifying business units where AI can drive impact, organisations can ensure consistent value is generated by connecting AI initiatives to broader business objectives. 
This strategic clarity is crucial given the vast applicability of AI across diverse functions such as process optimisation,  procurement 
and supply-chain optimisation. 

  2. Technology strategy 

The pace of AI innovation has captured the imaginations of people around the world. It has also intensified many of the biggest questions leaders face when seeking to optimise AI value. 

Is the infrastructure ready for secure, rapid, and scalable data access for AI? Should we buy, build, or modernise AI apps based on our business strategy? What criteria should guide the choice between on-premises or cloud hosting for AI and data apps? 

As you work through these questions, it is important to know that a technology implementation partner with a proven track record can help you determine what technologies align with your unique use cases. Whether you’re pursuing a prebuilt approach, doing everything in-house, or following a hybrid model, we know that your AI readiness is determined through a fully realised technology strategy.    

  3. AI Strategy and Experience 

For AI to improve customer and workforce experiences, businesses must be proactive by creating supportive operating models that foster a culture of agility and experimentation and are backed by leadership support. 

To drive business value with AI you need to: 

• Upgrade tech architecture with a focus on data readiness. 
• Explore generative AI use cases that support your business. 
• Set objectives for each use case, decide between building or buying, and partner with trusted providers for AI operations. 
• Assess your business units, processes and deployment history to identify opportunities or blockers. 
• Consider using Copilot for Microsoft 365 or building your own to speed up learning and value. 

  4. AI Governance 

By integrating responsible principles and AI governance practices into their AI initiatives, businesses can unlock the full potential of AI while mitigating risks and safeguarding against potential harms. This approach enables organizations to build trust, foster innovation, and drive sustainable value creation with AI. The new era of AI requires that businesses acknowledge and confront the critical imperative of securing data, fortifying assets, and implementing AI responsibly.   

Quick overview of Saudi Arabia’s AI landscape 

Saudi Arabia is emerging as a leading nation in leveraging the immense potential of artificial intelligence, and the world is watching. 

75% of Saudis already understand AI concepts, with 64% aware of its applications according to SDAIA’s survey in 2024. In the education sector, 86% of universities are offering AI programs and 42% are focusing on AI specifically. Meanwhile, 81% of public entities reported that AI is significantly improving their services. 

Moreover, LEAP 2025, held in Riyadh, reinforced Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure investments, securing total investments exceeding $14.9 billion! 

How prioritising AI can grow your business 

There are countless use cases for AI that all organizations, no matter the stage in their journey, can start exploring as they build toward AI success. 

According to Forbes Advisor, 64% of business owners believe AI has the potential to improve customer relationships, indicating a positive outlook on the role of AI in enhancing client interactions. While a staggering 97% of business owners believe that ChatGPT will benefit their businesses.  

Here are just a few high-impact areas where AI can make a difference: 

Natural language processing  

• Customer service chatbots 
• Social media analysis 
• Language translation services 
• Copywriting 
• Automated code generation 

Predictive analytics 

• Financial forecasting 
• Demand planning 
• Inventory management 
• Predictive maintenance 
• Optimised decision making 
• Fraud detection and cybersecurity 

Recommendation systems 

• Personalized content 
• Preference tracking 
• Product and service innovation 
• Automated workflows 
• Enhanced engagement opportunities 

Is your business ready for AI? Opportunity is knocking! 

For transformation leaders, help from AI isn’t on the way; it’s here, today. As leaders embark on the journey of AI implementation, it is essential to recognize that the transformative potential of AI extends far beyond technological innovation. Success hinges on preparing a systematic approach to adopting AI strategies, alongside getting guidance and expertise to ensure a firm technological foundation. It’s about driving value through improved experiences and fostering a culture that thrives on innovation. At the same time, prioritizing responsible governance and ethical principles is key to navigating AI’s potential while ensuring long-term success. 

With the power to turn complexity into clarity and moonshots into milestones, AI is showing that achieving results from enterprise transformation doesn’t take a crystal ball… just the need to answer the opportunity knocking at your door. 

Own the disruption 

As a global technology powerhouse, Systems Arabia can get you prepared for AI innovations by guiding you through the evolving technological landscape. The world is changing, and technology is advancing. Seize this opportunity to lead AI transformation with us and make a meaningful impact on your business. 

Let’s talk AI-enabled transformation: https://www.systemsltd.com/Contact-us