AI key to enterprises’ digital transformation, changes CIO functions: Vietnam conference

While digital transformation encompasses a wide range of elements, it has three fundamental pillars: process, technology, and people, and artificial intelligence (AI) is a central tech component, says Pham Tuan Anh, CIO of Becamex IDC Corporation.

Tuan Anh shared this perspective on Thursday at the 2024 Information technology leadership community conference: Building an IT strategy for the future. The conference was part of the CIO (Chief Information Officer) Summit 2024 held in Ho Chi Minh City.

Anh said AI plays a significant role within the technology framework, which is a critical pillar of digital transformation.

“AI serves as a powerful tool that enables organizations to become smarter and accelerates the digital transformation process. However, transforming an enterprise is complex, and the human factor, particularly leadership, is crucial,” he said.

“The role of IT leaders is to help other leaders, especially those who may not be tech-savvy, embrace change to create new value,” he added.

AI will enhance organizational intelligence, but it ultimately depends on the leader's decisions. When leaders understand the challenges and make informed choices, it can lead to significant business development, he explained.

“While AI is a powerful asset, the first step in transformation is addressing issues related to processes and people within the organization," he said.

Dang Hai Anh, CIO of PNJ, described digital transformation as a vast ocean current that includes numerous technologies, with AI representing a significant wave. He noted that AI distinguishes itself from previous technologies like cloud, blockchain and IoT.

“AI is a promising wave, but organizations must be well-prepared to navigate it successfully. IT leaders must be adaptable, advise enterprises on how to embrace transformation, and ensure sustainable progress moving forward," Hai Anh suggested.

He further explained that while earlier technologies focus more on automation, AI is tied to intelligence, providing deeper insights for organizations in the future.

Nguyen Anh Nguyen, a member of the advisory board at Bamboo Capital Group, said AI is capable of handling several project tasks hitherto done by humans, replacing the latter.

A recent survey of 12,000 global CIOs, released at the end of September by American technology consulting firm Gartner, highlighted the critical role of these executives in the AI era.

Traditionally, CIOs concentrated on managing IT infrastructure; now, they are expected to lead AI technology integration, necessitating new skills and strategic thinking. Five major challenges for CIOs in the 2024-2025 period are: developing an AI strategy, creating a practical data analysis strategy, addressing emerging security threats, demonstrating business value from technology investments, and designing IT human resources for the new era.