A study by Japanese consulting firm NTT DATA shows that only 15% of the companies surveyed are considered AI pioneers. They are characterized by clear strategies, disciplined implementation, and company-wide adoption. These companies integrate AI into their core business objectives, focus on particularly valuable areas, and redesign workflows to achieve maximum impact. They invest in scalable, secure infrastructure, embed AI in key applications, and empower their employees to use AI for complex tasks rather than replacing them.
Governance, change management, and strategic partnerships further promote implementation. This approach creates a self-reinforcing cycle of early successes, continuous investment, and higher financial performance. This secures competitive advantages and long-term growth for the pioneers.