Managed service providers (MSPs) are increasingly becoming a critical partner for organizations looking to build and deploy generative artificial intelligence (AI) applications. A survey of over 200 executives from enterprises in the Americas and Europe finds nearly two-thirds (65 percent) are now using MSPs to support these initiatives.
The survey predicts that enterprises spend on generative AI initiatives will increase by 50 percent in 2025, with spending expected to average $2.6 million.
The future of cost-effective, industry-specific generative AI (GenAI)
Up until recently, developing generative AI applications has generally required deep pockets. In addition to finding and retaining the necessary expertise, training large language models (LLMs) requires access to expensive infrastructure. This has made it difficult for many organizations to leverage LLMs fully. Certain classes of graphical processor units (GPUs), for example, are typically reserved on a cloud service at a premium.
However, as generative AI continues to evolve, more organizations are starting to realize that smaller domain-specific generative AI models might prove to be not only more relevant to their business but also less expensive to build.
Instead of relying on LLMs that require massive infrastructure, organizations can build and deploy smaller language models more cost-effectively. Building and deploying smaller language models still requires data science and engineering expertise. However, as costs decline, it will be more feasible for midsize organizations to create their own generative AI applications to automate tasks unique to their industry segment.
These smaller models will enable organizations to build an AI agent that goes well beyond merely offering summarizations and suggestions. An AI agent can collect and process data in real-time to identify patterns to better facilitate actual decisions and execute a task. With each interaction, the AI agent can update its knowledge base and continuously learn more about how to execute a specific task.
As AI agents automate a wider range of manual tasks, organizations will need MSPs help to reengineer their business processes. Moving forward, nearly every organization will need support to adapt and optimize for this new reality.
Harnessing GenAI expertise
GenAI is has the potential to transform almost every business processes there are and business leaders are concerned their organization may be left behind. Many are seeking access to the expertise who can advice them on what they can achieve with GenAI. Just as critically, they want to know what will be possible in the coming months. MSPs who can provide the expertise and insights will become invaluable.
A key challenge MSPs face is gaining this expertise. Fortunately, almost every vendor offering a GenAI platform has already trained millions of individuals to master the technology. As a result, the pool of talent is rapidly expanding. The challenge and opportunity is to harness that expertise before their MSP peers. After all, it’s not AI that is going to supplant an MSP but rather another MSP that has figured out how to leverage it better.
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