AI transformation is the new digital transformation. Here's why that change matters

Digital transformation is so last year. CEOs and their boardroom colleagues have heard about the potential power of generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI), and they want their CIOs to deliver a new type of data-led change program: AI transformation.

Gabriela Vogel, a senior director analyst in the Executive Leadership of Digital Business (ELDB) practice at tech analyst Gartner, told ZDNET that her firm's 2024 CEO Survey suggests many bosses are responding to the hype about Gen AI by demanding AI rather than digital transformations.

Also: 4 ways to turn generative AI experiments into real business value

The survey shows how CEOs' use of the term "digital" increased for a decade but has declined over the last two years, just as their use of "AI" has started to rise. AI is mentioned much more in CEOs' top two strategic priorities for 2024 (24%) than in the ...