Tag: TechLeadership

The returns from digital transformation will remain elusive until business leaders confront an uncomfortable truth: the problem is not the Artificial Intelligence (AI), but everything underneath it. Consider this scenario. You lead a large retail business. Six months ago, you approved a significant generative AI investment to personalise customer promotions. The business case was compelling, the pilot results were strong and the board supported the move.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming how businesses operate, make decisions, and engage with consumers. From predictive analytics to automated customer support, AI is now embedded in daily operations. AI also supports intelligent process automation. As a result, the rise of AI in business continues to reshape industries. However, one critical factor is often overlooked. Businesses frequently ignore the people behind the technology.

According to our latest C-suite barometer, business leaders entered 2026 with both confidence and caution. Notably, 92% of executives reported a positive growth outlook for their organisations. At the same time, Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerged as the most influential external trend. Specifically, 40% of respondents identified it as the key factor shaping business over the next 12 months.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds immense potential to drive human progress. It reshapes industries and unlocks new growth opportunities. However, for many businesses across South Africa, the path to AI adoption involves important economic considerations.

Organisations often rush into Artificial Intelligence (AI) without a clear strategy or the right internal capability. As a result, they risk overpromising, underdelivering, and damaging their credibility in the market. These risks undermine long-term AI success and weaken stakeholder confidence.

Every organisation today operates in a complex, interconnected digital environment that extends far beyond its traditional perimeter. Cloud workloads, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) applications, remote devices and third-party integrations create countless entry points for attackers. While most businesses focus on securing the “front door”, the real risk often lies in forgotten side doors, service hatches and unguarded windows that make up the modern attack surface

As South Africa accelerates its digital transformation, the conversation around women in technology needs to become more practical and outcome-focused. While access to digital tools has improved, the real issue now is whether women are meaningfully participating in the decisions, development and leadership that shape how technology is used in the world of work.

Studies show that South Africa (SA) trails the United States of America (USA) in Artificial Intelligence (AI) implementation by 50%: confirmed by SA’s leading digital innovation agency. SA is not short on ambition when it comes to AI. However, the country struggles with execution.