There’s a quote circulating the internet that goes a little something like this: “I want AI to do my laundry and dishes so that I can do art and writing, not for AI to do my art and writing so that I can do my laundry and dishes.” Now, while AI tools can’t actually do your laundry, the sentiment is spot on: AI should help us be more productive and provide value where it matters most – especially AI IT investments.

A major benefit of AI tools is to maximize employee productivity and cost savings for businesses. Our most recent market research survey reveals significant insights into how IT leaders really feel about AI:

  • 93% of IT decision-makers (ITDMs) surveyed say AI provides value in supporting IT operations.
  • 86% would invest in AI-powered IT products if they help reduce operational costs.

So, what is the reality of introducing these tools to your organization? AI implementation often requires significant upfront investments. But, if these initiatives are executed swiftly and efficiently, the benefits are quickly realized. Organizations need to carefully select the right technology to reduce time to value when deploying a new AI or service desk tool. Focus on strategic deployment, and prioritize continuous optimization through real-time analytics and data.

Let’s dive into how you can accelerate the ROI of your AI IT investments.

Rapid deployment and integration 

Streamlined installation

Most ITDMs surveyed have a strong preference for efficiency and speed-related outcomes regarding AI IT investments. Business leaders should choose IT software that offers rapid deployment options to minimize downtime and disruption. Automated installation processes can help get the software up and running swiftly.

Seamless integration

The capability should integrate seamlessly with existing IT infrastructure. Whether connecting endpoint management systems, security platforms, or other enterprise applications, smooth compatibility reduces the need for extensive reconfiguration. To do this, consider the following:

  • Using automated deployment tools for quick installation.
  • Leveraging integration guides to connect with existing systems.
  • Fully engaging with the vendor’s support team for assistance with complex integrations.

Enhanced endpoint management 

Real-time visibility

Select software that provides real-time visibility into the status of endpoints. The benefit? It allows IT teams to identify and resolve issues quickly. Proactive management reduces the time spent on troubleshooting and makes sure systems are always running optimally.

Automated remediation

Automating routine maintenance tasks is key. From patch management to software distribution, automation capabilities ensure that endpoints are consistently up-to-date and compliant. This minimizes the need for manual, often time-consuming, intervention. The following action items can help measure progress and manage automation processes:

  • Configuring real-time dashboards for endpoint monitoring.
  • Creating automated remediation workflows for common issues.
  • Regularly reviewing endpoint status reports to preemptively address potential problems.

Data-driven Insights

Comprehensive analytics

Invest in tools with the ability to provide analytics about system performance and user behavior. By using these insights, organizations can make informed decisions that optimize IT operations and enhance user satisfaction.

Predictive analytics

Our research highlights a desire to use AI to improve proactive IT practices. 79% of ITDMs want to predict how users will react to IT issues, for example. Predictive data is powerful when it comes to anticipating potential issues before they arise. This proactive approach helps IT teams take preemptive action and develop thorough maintenance strategies. This foresight reduces downtime and ensures smoother operations. IT leaders should regularly review analytics reports to identify areas for improvement.

Centralized Management

Unified console

Adopt software that provides a centralized management console so that IT teams can oversee all endpoints and systems from a single interface. This consolidation enables comprehensive system oversight, simplifies management tasks, and significantly improves efficiency. With real-time visibility, control, and compliance across the IT estate, IT teams can quickly query, diagnose, and adjust endpoint configurations. The result? Faster implementation of changes and more effective troubleshooting. Automated configuration compliance across various operating systems ensures consistent adherence to policies. By deploying policies, viewing real-time device details, and generating enterprise state reports, IT teams can maintain standardized baselines and ensure continuous compliance. Ultimately, this approach leads to enhanced productivity, reduced downtime, and streamlined IT operations. 

Policy enforcement

With centralized management, enforcing IT policies across the organization becomes straightforward. Consistent application of security measures and compliance standards reduces the risk of breaches and non-compliance implications.

The rapid development of AI has heralded a renewed focus on efficiency, productivity, and cost savings.

IT leaders report fixing issues faster and enhancing service desk efficiency and speed as their most valued benefit of AI in IT operations. By adopting these strategies, businesses can accelerate the ROI from new AI IT investments. This will help ensure a more efficient, secure, and productive digital workplace.