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- media@commsroom.co
A recent poll of more than 1,000 network engineers, CIOs, and CSOs from the UK, US, France, Germany, and Australia shows that they have different ideas about how to invest in artificial intelligence.
While 57% of network engineers expect their organisation’s investment in AI to grow by more than 25% in the next two to three years, 49% of CIOs and CSOs share this view. Despite these expectations, 70% of engineers believe that even with increased investment, it may not be enough to meet business objectives.
The main barriers to AI adoption also differ by role. Network engineers point to high initial costs (29%) as the biggest challenge, while CIOs and CSOs are more concerned about regulatory compliance (36%) and the lack of skilled personnel to manage artificial intelligence systems (30%).
Preparation strategies for AI integration vary as well. Senior leaders are focused on continuous monitoring and real-time analytics (32%), while network engineers prioritise training IT staff (31%) and improving network resilience (26%).
AI’s role in cybersecurity is also significant.
69% of network engineers think AI will make their company better at protecting itself from cyber threats, even though 66% of CIOs and CSOs only spent 4% to 10% of their IT and cybersecurity funds on AI last year.
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When it comes to AI leadership, 29% of senior leaders believe the CIO should oversee AI implementation, followed by the CSO (19%). In contrast, 22% of network engineers think the CSO should take the lead, reflecting their focus on security-related concerns.
These findings highlight how different roles within organisations shape priorities and strategies for AI in network management.
Looking ahead, organisations will need to bridge the gap between leadership and technical teams to maximise AI’s potential. Encouraging collaboration, aligning goals, and investing in both technology and workforce skills will be key to successfully integrating AI into management strategies.
