After several decades of progress, AI technology is now poised to become a significant source of value for a wide range of businesses. In the 2019 MIT Sloan Management Review and Boston Consulting Group (BCG) Artificial Intelligence Global Executive Study and Research Report, 9 out of 10 respondents agree that AI represents a business opportunity for their company. In addition, a growing number of leaders view AI as not just an opportunity but also a strategic risk: "What if competitors, particularly unencumbered new entrants, figure out AI before we do?" In 2019, 45% perceived some risk from AI, up from an already substantial 37% in 2017. This shift suggests an increasing awareness of and concern with competitors' use of AI.

Machine learning and Big Data will produce the earliest wins for organizations utilizing emerging digital technology, according to Sehida Frawley, SAP Australia and New Zealand head of digital business services. However, she cautions, generating value and confidence in the technology will depend on an organization's resources, technology ecosystems, and trust. For example, in order for organizations to trust the outcome of machine learning, they must also be able to trust the underlying data, Frawley said. The trust requirement extends to other technology, like blockchain, where there must be "trust in the relationship of that chain." Ultimately, generating value from emerging technology like machine learning, blockchain, and IoT will also depend on resources – how much effort is required to have success – and the technology ecosystems to support new applications, Frawley said.