Across the Middle East, businesses are increasingly recognizing artificial intelligence (AI) as a pivotal tool for overcoming productivity challenges and driving growth. With AI projected to contribute up to $320 billion to the regional economy by 2030, according to PwC, its potential is undeniable. IT leaders are playing a crucial role in this transformation, integrating AI technologies into business operations to streamline workflows and enhance efficiency.
Rather than focusing solely on improving individual employee performance, organizations are taking a broader approach. They are utilizing AI to optimize processes and elevate overall productivity. A recent Boston Consulting Group report indicates that 61% of Middle Eastern executives expect productivity gains exceeding 10% from AI and generative AI within the next year. This confidence is echoed by IT professionals, with 80% of CIOs expressing optimism about AI’s impact and 84% forecasting significant productivity improvements in the near term.
Generative AI (GenAI) and Large Language Models (LLMs) have become transformative tools in modern workplaces. They enable tasks that once required hours of manual effort to be completed in a fraction of the time. These tools rely on natural language interfaces, allowing employees to interact with data more intuitively. However, their successful adoption is not as simple as it may seem. Businesses often assume these technologies will be seamlessly integrated without additional effort, overlooking the critical need for user training and support.
Although GenAI and LLMs are marketed as user-friendly solutions, their effective use requires a new set of skills. Employees must learn how to craft precise, structured prompts and refine AI-generated outputs iteratively. Training in these areas is essential for deriving accurate, meaningful results. Without adequate training, even the most advanced tools may fail to deliver their full potential. This gap in readiness can hinder productivity and innovation.
To illustrate, consider the example of dual monitors, which studies show can increase productivity by 9% to 50%. Despite their benefits, many employees underutilize them due to a lack of training. Similarly, employees using AI tools need structured guidance to understand their limitations. AI systems, while powerful, can generate contextually convincing but factually incorrect results. It is vital for employees to critically evaluate AI outputs and recognize the tools’ constraints, ensuring responsible and effective use.
As AI becomes more integrated into the workplace, employees are increasingly seeking support to harness its capabilities. Many workers recognize AI’s potential to enhance efficiency but understand that without formal training, they may not fully benefit from these tools. Research reveals that 61% of employees want structured training in GenAI. Despite this demand, many organizations lag in providing adequate support. While 73% of European businesses report using AI at work, only 30% offer limited training, and 40% provide no training at all. This disconnect underscores the importance of comprehensive training programs to help employees maximize AI’s benefits.
To ensure the smooth adoption of AI, IT departments must take a proactive role in preparing both the workforce and the technology infrastructure. Partnering with experienced technology providers can be instrumental in this process. Lenovo’s Advisory Services, part of its broader Device-as-a-Service (DaaS) solutions, offers end-to-end support to organizations implementing AI. With extensive experience deploying AI solutions internally and assisting clients globally, Lenovo brings valuable expertise to the table.
Lenovo’s Advisory Services team works closely with businesses to develop tailored strategies that align AI adoption with organizational goals. Their support encompasses everything from strategic planning to hands-on training, ensuring employees are equipped to use AI effectively. By addressing both technological and workforce readiness, Lenovo helps organizations unlock the full potential of AI. This dual perspective—as both a user and provider of AI solutions—positions Lenovo as a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of AI integration.
The adoption of AI represents a transformative opportunity for businesses in the Middle East. By investing in training, leveraging expert partnerships, and embracing strategic AI implementation, organizations can overcome productivity challenges, drive innovation, and position themselves for sustained growth. Lenovo’s Advisory Services offer a reliable pathway to achieving these goals, helping businesses future-proof their operations and unlock the full benefits of AI technology.