NEWSROOM

In a landmark study spanning 34 countries, business leaders reveal growing trust in GenAI’s operational value, while also warning of gaps in legacy infrastructure and cybersecurity.

The experimental phase of generative AI is over, according to a new Global GenAI Report published by NTT DATA, one of the world’s top ten IT consultancies. Drawing on insights from over 2,300 decision-makers across 12 industries and 34 countries, the report finds that 97% of CEOs expect direct financial impact from generative AI, while 99% plan to increase their investments in the technology.

The survey underscores a sharp pivot: executives no longer view GenAI as a hype-driven tool but as a core operational lever. Nearly 90% of leaders reported "pilot fatigue" and are shifting their focus toward proven use cases with measurable ROI.

“Generative AI is no longer an experiment—it’s a strategic asset,” said Serdal Mermer, SVP of Professional Services for NTT DATA Business Solutions in the META region. “Companies have started unlocking real business value through practical scenarios.”
From Potential to Performance

The report reveals a significant shift in sentiment:

• Only 1% of executives now consider GenAI “overhyped.”
• 96% believe it holds long-term transformational potential.
• 70% express overall optimism about GenAI adoption.
• 83% of companies say their GenAI roadmaps are clearly defined.
• 95% see it as unlocking new levels of creativity and innovation.
• 90% expect a material impact, specifically in R&D workflows.

Still, while optimism runs high, implementation remains a challenge. The study highlights data quality, infrastructure, and computational power as primary barriers to progress. Ninety-four percent of respondents believe that investments in cloud infrastructure and integrated digital twins will be crucial for scaling GenAI effectively.

Legacy Systems and Cyber Risks: Ongoing Challenges

Despite strong interest, fewer than half of the organizations surveyed say their cybersecurity frameworks are aligned with their GenAI strategies.

• Eighty-nine percent of executives expressed concern over potential cyber risks associated with AI integration.
• Cloud platforms were identified by 96% as the most cost-effective and scalable route to implementation.
• Legacy systems remain a bottleneck: 9 out of 10 companies face difficulties integrating GenAI into their outdated infrastructure.

“Cloud-native systems are becoming the default enabler of generative AI,” Mermer noted, adding that industry-specific scenarios require end-to-end capabilities and the right technology partners to succeed.

AI Transformation in Practice

NTT DATA Business Solutions is actively using GenAI both internally and with enterprise clients.

• Its proprietary aXet tool supports staff with fast, accurate answers across 50+ technologies—no complex prompts needed.
• The firm also deploys a Virtual SAP Consultant to support AI-led SAP transformations.
• Since early 2024, it has hosted a series of OpenAI-focused workshops for Turkish enterprises and developed tailored GenAI solutions for leading local brands.

“With decades of sectoral expertise, we’ve positioned ourselves as a trusted partner for digital transformation across Turkey and the region,” said Mermer. “Our journey with generative AI is already delivering value across operations and client projects alike.”