A recent Accenture survey indicates that nearly two-thirds of businesses are planning to increase their investments in AI and automation over the next two years, driven by positive outcomes from existing initiatives. However, challenges such as data readiness, infrastructure, and skill shortages threaten to hinder successful AI adoption. Gartner's prediction that one-third of generative AI projects may be abandoned by 2025 due to rising costs and unclear business value adds to the urgency for organizations to address these gaps.

The episode also highlights the growing concerns surrounding cybersecurity, particularly in the UK, where the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued updated guidelines for multi-factor authentication (MFA) in response to rising cyber threats. With ransomware attacks reaching unprecedented levels, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) is investigating fewer incidents than ever, raising alarms about the effectiveness of regulatory oversight. The discussion emphasizes the importance of implementing strong security measures, such as MFA, to protect organizations from increasing cyber risks.

Host Dave Sobel further explores initiatives aimed at bridging the skills gap in AI and cybersecurity. TD Cinex has launched the Destination AI Practice Accelerator to help partners enhance their AI-driven go-to-market strategies, while Breach Secure Now has introduced an AI Readiness Innovation Assessment to support small and medium-sized businesses in integrating AI into their operations. These programs reflect a growing recognition of the need for tailored support and training to empower businesses in leveraging AI effectively.

Finally, the episode touches on the evolving landscape of marketplace-driven sales, as highlighted by Pax8's recent partner conference. With a significant number of European partners anticipating increased marketplace use, the need for service providers to adapt to new sales and procurement models is more critical than ever. As the industry continues to evolve, those who can navigate the complexities of AI, cybersecurity, and marketplace dynamics will be well-positioned

Four things to know today

00:00 AI Growth Fueled by High Expectations, but Gartner Predicts One-Third of Projects May Be Abandoned by 2025

05:15 UK Faces Rising Cyber Threats: NCSC Urges Stronger MFA Use, ICO Investigations Hit Record Lows

07:36 TD SYNNEX and BSN Help Channel Partners and SMBs Overcome AI Skills Gaps with Tailored Programs

10:20 Pax8 Unveils Voyager Alliance Program to Meet Diverse MSP Growth Needs, Emphasizes Marketplace-Driven Sales

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