TDWI Research Brief | The Impact of Generative AI on Business
August 20, 2025
As technology continues to evolve, the emergence of generative and agentic AI presents both challenges and opportunities for organizations across various sectors. The question on everyone’s mind is: what is the tangible impact of these advancements on business operations? A recent survey conducted by TDWI sheds light on this matter, revealing insightful trends among organizations navigating the AI landscape.
The TDWI survey specifically focused on two distinct groups: the first comprises organizations consuming prebuilt generative AI tools, while the second includes those embarking on the journey of building, embedding, or customizing generative AI capabilities tailored to their unique company data. This distinction is crucial as it highlights varying levels of AI maturity and engagement across businesses.
In the realm of prebuilt generative AI tools, respondents indicated significant efficiency gains and improved accuracy in tasks such as content generation and data analysis. Many organizations reported that implementing these solutions has streamlined workflows, allowing teams to focus on more strategic initiatives rather than repetitive tasks. This shift not only enhances productivity but also cultivates a culture of innovation as employees leverage AI to derive insights and drive decision-making.
Conversely, the organizations customizing and embedding generative AI capabilities revealed a deeper integration of AI into their core business functions. By utilizing proprietary data, these firms can create tailored AI solutions that reflect their unique operational needs and customer preferences. Such bespoke implementations facilitate a more nuanced understanding of customer behavior and market dynamics, ultimately enhancing customer experience and satisfaction.
One interesting trend emerged from the survey concerning the challenges faced by organizations in adopting generative AI. While many respondents acknowledged the potential benefits, they also pointed to obstacles such as data privacy concerns, a shortage of skilled talent, and the need for robust governance frameworks. These issues underscore the importance of a strategic approach to AI adoption, where organizations must not only focus on technology but also invest in training and ethical standards.
The report emphasizes that organizations willing to embrace the transformational potential of generative AI will likely emerge as industry leaders. Companies are encouraged to assess their current AI strategies, explore the nuances between consuming prebuilt tools versus developing custom solutions, and align their initiatives with long-term business goals. Embracing an AI-enabled future requires commitment, insight, and careful planning.
TDWI’s research brief offers an in-depth evaluation of respondent experiences with generative AI, highlighting key lessons and actionable insights. For those looking to stay ahead in this evolving landscape, accessing this exclusive research is essential. Understanding the multifaceted impacts of AI on business not only provides a competitive edge but cultivates a forward-thinking organization ready to tackle the complexities of tomorrow’s market.