‘Only around 28% companies are scaling up AI in a big way’, says Sandip Patel, Managing Director, IBM India

5 min read

‘Only around 28% companies are scaling up AI in a big way’, says Sandip Patel, Managing Director, IBM India

On a sunny afternoon in Bangalore, the heart of India’s bustling tech landscape, Sandip Patel, Managing Director of IBM India, sits in his office overlooking a city undergoing rapid transformation. The skyline is dotted with cranes and half-finished skyscrapers, emblematic of the technological boom sweeping across the nation. Patel has been at the forefront of this wave, steering IBM India’s ambitious efforts to deepen research and development endeavors, expand software labs, and bolster innovation through tier-2 city hubs. Yet, as he candidly reveals, only about 28% of companies are truly scaling up their artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities in a significant manner.

The State of AI Adoption

Patel’s insights are grounded in a landscape where digital transformation is the buzzword, but the actual implementation of AI at scale remains a challenge for many enterprises. According to a McKinsey report, while over 50% of companies have adopted AI in some form, the level of progress in scaling these initiatives varies significantly. Patel emphasizes that scaling AI is not just about technology but also about culture, skills, and infrastructure.

IBM’s strategy, described as a ‘technology trinity’ of hybrid cloud, AI, and quantum computing, seeks to address these multi-dimensional challenges. “We are investing in deep R&D to propel these technologies forward, but equally important is our focus on building local capabilities,” Patel notes. This strategic focus is not only enhancing IBM’s competitiveness but is also empowering a large ecosystem of partners and clients in India and beyond.

Trends and Developments Driving AI

The push for robust AI scale-up is not new but has gained unprecedented momentum as businesses seek to leverage AI to optimize operations, enhance customer experiences, and innovate at a pace previously deemed unachievable. This projection aligns with findings from a report by TechCrunch, which highlights that AI adoption is increasingly being driven by advancements in data analytics, machine learning, and cloud computing.

IBM’s commitment to AI and its integration with other technologies like quantum and hybrid cloud offers a glimpse into a future where computing power will transform multiple sectors—from healthcare to finance. This convergence is gradually unfolding across tier-2 cities in India, where IBM has strategically placed several innovation hubs. These hubs play a crucial role in nurturing local talent and fostering innovative solutions that can be scaled globally.

Challenges in Scaling AI

Despite the optimism, Patel acknowledges the hurdles in AI adoption. The divergence in scaling capability often stems from a lack of skilled professionals and adequate infrastructure. According to a study by The Verge, these challenges are compounded by the complexities of integrating AI systems with existing business processes and ensuring data privacy and security.

Key Challenges in AI Scaling
Challenge	Impact
Skill Shortage	Difficulties in recruiting and training talent
Integration Issues	Complexity in integrating with existing systems
Data Security	Heightened risk of data breaches

The Road Ahead

Patel is optimistic, however, about the future of AI in India and globally. He states, “The key is collaboration—between industry, academia, and the government. This triad will propel AI forward and help more companies realize its potential.” IBM’s partnerships with educational institutions and tech startups are an essential component of this collaborative approach.

As AI continues to evolve, companies globally must not only invest in state-of-the-art technologies but also focus on building an ecosystem that supports their operations. IBM’s model of balancing innovation with inclusivity offers a viable blueprint for companies aiming to scale their AI initiatives effectively.

Conclusion

As Sandip Patel reflects on the journey and the challenges ahead, he emphasizes, “We are at a pivotal moment. The companies that can successfully scale AI will not only redefine their industries but also set the stage for the next wave of technological innovation.” For businesses grappling with this task, Patel’s insights serve as both a guide and a call to action.

Breaking