Cognizant has revealed that plug-and-play artificial intelligence (AI) solutions are largely ineffective for enterprises, with organizations increasingly preferring custom-built AI systems to generate real business value. The findings are based on a study of 600 AI decision-makers and interviews with 38 senior executives across global markets. The report highlights that enterprises prioritize tailored AI solutions and flexible engagement models over pricing and speed of deployment. Off-the-shelf AI tools are cited as a major reason for rejecting vendors, along with lack of industry expertise and integration challenges. Key hurdles in AI adoption include regulatory compliance (33%), difficulty in demonstrating return on investment (31%), and talent shortages (27%).
Cognizant CEO Ravi Kumar S said, “AI success is not about deploying isolated models but engineering intelligence into enterprises with purpose-built solutions.” The study also notes that 84% of enterprises have formal AI budgets, with 91% expecting growth in the next two years, signaling long-term investment. Importantly, AI is seen as augmenting rather than replacing human work, with limited full automation expected across sectors.
In Kolkata, there is a growing demand for customized AI services among IT firms and enterprises, particularly in sectors like BFSI and retail. Local businesses are increasingly seeking integration-focused AI partners rather than generic solutions, aligning with the broader global trend highlighted in Cognizant’s research.
