RESEARCH REPORT
Leading with edge: How to reinvent with data and AI
Our research reveals how the most successful adopters are using edge to fuel innovation.
10-MINUTE READ
Edge computing is bending the innovation curve by dramatically improving the performance of production and service applications that run business. It moves computing to the edge of the enterprise network where it is closest to users and devices — and most critically, where the data is created.
Edge has a role to play in the evolution of AI and generative AI for businesses. It enables data analysis in real- or near-real time, making training AI models a simpler task and improving the performance of AI-driven applications.
of global executives say AI foundation models will play an important role in their organizations’ strategies in the next 3 to 5 years.
Not surprisingly, edge is becoming an integral part of the digital core, which leverages the power of cloud, data, and AI through an interoperable set of systems across the enterprise that allows for rapid innovation.
We surveyed 2,100 C-level executives in 18 industries across 16 countries to understand levels of edge interest and adoption among companies. We found that 83% believe that edge computing will be essential to remaining competitive in the future. Still, adoption lags behind interest.
of companies believe that edge computing will be essential to remaining competitive in the future.
of companies think failure to act quickly can lock them out from the full benefits of the technology.
of companies are using edge to some degree today. Of these, half have deeply integrated edge with their digital core.
In our research, we found four main enterprise approaches to edge adoption. These approaches are largely driven by factors such as the strategic implementation to support business capabilities, the ability to scale across the organization and the maturity of the technology.
Edge adoption strategy and outcomes
Each type makes a different set of choices to create and capture value from edge.
Type 1 (Ad Hoc) and Type 2 (Tactical) are the least successful adopters. Their edge deployments are one-off and strictly tactical, or otherwise not integrated with the enterprise’s systems. This hobbles their efforts to scale the technology or integrate it with other technologies for maximum return.
Type 3 (Integrated) scales edge and integrates it deeply with cloud and the greater IT strategy. Type 4 (Super Integrated) is the most transformational adopter, working with innovation partners to develop and edge-first business. These types demonstrate better outcomes and ability to accelerate innovation.
Regardless of what type of edge adopter you are, our three-step framework can help you unlock the value of edge.
To learn more about maximizing value from edge, read the full report.