Artificial intelligence is changing the way business is conducted. Organizations that understand where to deploy AI strategically—whether through process improvements, more effective data use, or elsewhere—are expected to outperform their competition and have greater growth and efficiency.

In its annual report, “The Impact of Technology in 2025 and Beyond: An IEEE Global Study,” IEEE surveyed 350 global technology leaders including CIOs, CTOs, and IT directors. The survey revealed that more than half of the respondents ranked AI, which encompasses predictive and generative AI, machine learning, and natural language processing, as the most important technology coming into 2025.

The tech leaders said they were ready to adopt AI, with many already leveraging its benefits and planning further exploration. Specifically, 20 percent of respondents reported regular use of generative AI, noting that it added value to their operations. Additionally, 24 percent acknowledged the benefits of the technology and said they intended to explore its practical applications. More than 30 percent had high expectations for AI and plan to experiment with it on smaller projects.

The strategic importance of AI for companies

AI’s impact varies across industries, with technology leading the way in integration. Despite AI’s increasing presence in company operations around the globe, it remains a source of confusion for most employees. As AI usage continues to rise, businesses should invest in bringing their staff up to speed on how to integrate the technology to improve their operations.

In a survey last year by technology research and advisory company Valoir, 84 percent of employees reported being unclear about what generative AI is or how it works. Similarly, in Slingshot’s Digital Work Trends Report, 77 percent of employees surveyed said they didn’t have adequate training in AI tools or fully understand how AI related to their job.

The effective use of AI can help companies and their employees make informed, data-driven decisions, improve resource allocation, provide more targeted and personalized customer experiences, and streamline project management. Business leaders who have a firm grasp on what AI can deliver will be better positioned for success.

For businesses that want to train their staff on the technology, IEEE offers a comprehensive education program designed to enhance knowledge and skills in the rapidly evolving field.

The resources, produced by IEEE Educational Activities, can ensure that employees are well-versed in the latest advancements and equipped with practical skills to drive innovation and efficiency within the organization.

The courses are also available to individuals through the IEEE Learning Network.

Upon successfully completing each course, participants earn professional development credits including professional development hours (PDHs) and continuing education units (CEUs). Additionally, they receive a shareable digital badge highlighting their proficiency—which can be showcased on social media platforms.

IEEE and Rutgers offer a mini MBA

The new IEEE | Rutgers Online Mini-MBA: Artificial Intelligence program is designed to help organizations and their employees master AI for innovation. The program provides learners with an enhanced understanding of applications tailored to specific industries and job functions. Participants learn how to strategically leverage the technology to address business challenges, optimize processes, make more effective use of data, better serve customer needs, and improve overall organizational success.

For employers, the program is invaluable in training staff to stay ahead of the competition in a fast-evolving landscape. It offers individual access and company-specific cohorts, providing flexible learning options to meet your organization’s needs.

IEEE members receive a 10 percent discount.

Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, IEEE’s education offerings can be invaluable for staying ahead. Learn more about IEEE’s corporate solutions, professional development programs, and individual eLearning courses.