AI, Transformation & Databricks report takeaways 2025

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As AI evolves within business, the perception is shifting significantly. It’s no longer viewed as a threat to jobs but as a powerful enabler of growth, efficiency, and creativity. Conversations with professionals across various sectors reveal that AI is increasingly helping businesses maximize output with fewer resources. Consider the NHS or startups, automating mundane tasks to allow employees to focus on higher-value, creative work—ultimately boosting productivity and achieving better business results.

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However, the challenge remains in how organisations prepare their teams to fully capitalize on AI’s potential. Success is not just about the technology itself, but about how businesses invest in training and upskilling their workforce. The gap in data literacy is a critical issue. AI is no longer confined to specialist teams; it’s becoming integral across organisations. For AI to truly drive value, businesses must ensure that all employees, from top executives to entry-level staff, understand the tools at their disposal and how to use them effectively.

We’ve explored the "Unlocking Enterprise AI: Opportunities and Strategies" report by Databricks , ?a global study of over 1,00 technologists and here are the key takeaways.

Five takeaways from the report:

1. AI as an enabler: Rather than reducing jobs, AI increases business output, making operations more efficient and productive.
2. Upskilling is essential: As AI tools evolve, so must your team. Regular upskilling ensures that your workforce is not left behind.
3. AI governance is non-negotiable: While AI automates processes, human oversight ensures accuracy, fairness, and compliance.
4. Data literacy for all: Empower your workforce by making data tools accessible, ensuring everyone can make data-driven decisions.
5. AI is a marathon, not a sprint: Progress takes time, with businesses needing patience as they embed AI into their strategies.

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For more on the report go to: https://www.databricks.com/resources/analyst-research/unlocking-enterprise-ai-opportunities-and-strategies

Having discuss the report in depth with partners across the five eyes, I would like to share our collective thoughts.

Five practical tips for AI success:

1. Create a strong training programme: AI tools are only as effective as the people using them. Offer regular training sessions so that AI doesn’t remain a ‘black box’.
2. Start with pilot projects: Before going full scale, test AI tools in small, low-risk environments. It’s like testing the waters before diving in.
3. Establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE): A CoE can centralise your AI efforts, ensuring consistency, compliance, and quality across your organisation. Think of it as your AI control centre.
4. Democratise data: Break down silos by ensuring your non-technical staff can access and interpret data. When everyone can see the numbers, they can make better decisions.
5. Don’t forget the human touch: AI is a great assistant, but it’s no replacement for human judgement. Always use AI as a tool to enhance decision-making, not replace it.

The Growing Role of AI in Business Strategy

AI isn’t just about automating tasks – it’s about transforming business models. Organisations and companies are already using AI to improve operations, allowing employees to perform data analysis without technical expertise. This is key to scaling AI adoption across the business. Empowering employees to access data and make decisions without waiting for an IT specialist leads to quicker insights and more agile operations.

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However, businesses must carefully calibrate their approach. Just as AI has the potential to streamline operations, it can also introduce new complexities, especially around data management. Businesses are now recognising that success lies in balancing AI and human oversight. This isn’t about pitting machines against people; rather, it’s about finding the right mix where each complements the other.

The Future of AI and Workforce Transformation

What’s clear is that AI is not just a tool for today’s challenges but a strategic driver for tomorrow. In industries like finance and healthcare, where regulatory frameworks are tightly defined, AI adoption must be approached with caution. Yet, in these same sectors, AI is making strides in areas like customer service, fraud detection, and even improving healthcare outcomes.

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Ultimately, businesses must focus on how AI fits into their long-term vision. As the Databricks study highlighted, AI can help businesses grow – not just by cutting costs, but by helping teams do more with the resources they have. The businesses that succeed will be the ones that invest in both technology and people. Whether that means upskilling your teams, integrating AI into your core operations, or simply allowing AI to do the mundane tasks while your employees get creative, it’s time to embrace the future.

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AI is coming – and it’s bringing an opportunity to innovate, improve, and evolve. It’s up to businesses to be proactive and prepare their teams for this transformation. Let’s embrace the change, get ahead of the curve, and make the most of what AI has to offer. And remember, AI doesn’t replace people; it empowers them. If we can harness its power, the future of work could be brighter than we’ve ever imagined.

Why collaboration is key

As AI continues to reshape industries, collaboration is essential for ensuring its successful integration. In the context of the Databricks report, professional networks like SECURE | CYBER CONNECT Community & Podcast , YorkshireX , DTX 360 , Clarion Events , Cyber News Global InfoSec Europe, CyberUK, and groups such as CyBlack , Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) , ISACA Northern England Chapter , Cyber London , and Yorkshire Cyber Security Cluster offer platforms for exchanging insights. These groups foster an environment where cyber security advancements and mental well-being are prioritised, creating a balanced approach to both technological progress and a resilient, supportive workplace culture.

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Would you like to explore collaboration opportunities in your area or discuss how we can best support you as allies and advocates? Reach out to our team at SECURE | CYBER CONNECT for more details.

Our Salary Survey Results offer valuable insights, promoting transparency to address salary disparities in the cyber security industry. By staying informed and prioritising development, both professionals and organisations can enhance their skills and security posture.

Full Salary Survey Results Available Here:?SECURE | CYBER CONENCT - SALARY SURVEY RESULTS 2024

Introducing Annick O'Brien

Annick O'Brien, CIPP/E, CIPM is General Counsel at CybSafe , where she applies her extensive legal expertise to drive robust compliance and risk management strategies. With a strong focus on aligning legal frameworks with business objectives, she has helped numerous organisations navigate complex legal landscapes, particularly in cyber security, privacy, data protection, and information security.

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Specialising in laws such as GDPR, DORA, and the EU AI Act, Annick is dedicated to supporting businesses in integrating these regulations effectively and sustainably. A passionate advocate for cultural change, she is also deeply involved in raising awareness around human cyber risk and its impact on organisations. Her contributions to the field have earned her the GRC Head of Legal of the Year Award 2024, and she is a sought-after speaker and writer. Annick brings an engaging, insightful approach to legal topics, helping demystify complex issues for her audience.

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Why This Episode is a Must-Watch We delve into some of the most critical topics shaping today’s cyber security, compliance, and digital transformation landscape. We explore ISO 42001, a new standard that is transforming the relationship between compliance and security, particularly in light of recent data breaches. We also discuss the evolving role of legal teams in cyber security governance and how they can collaborate with technical teams to create resilient, future-proof strategies. Additionally, we cover the NIST Cyber security Framework, its core principles, and the direct legal implications for organisations, alongside insights into the EU Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) and how it challenges traditional compliance models.

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This is a must-listen for legal and security professionals seeking practical guidance on how to navigate the complexities of compliance, risk management, and AI governance. Whether you’re aiming to align your organisation with the latest regulations or looking for strategies to mitigate the legal risks of cyber incidents, this podcast provides valuable insights. Don’t miss the chance to hear from experts who are leading the way in the future of cyber security.

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