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The Challenges of AI Readiness in Businesses: Insights from Nasuni's Research

In a landscape where hybrid cloud solutions are becoming increasingly prevalent, businesses are making substantial investments to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI). A recent report by Nasuni, titled The Era of Hybrid Cloud Storage 2025, sheds light on the complexities that organizations face in ensuring their data is primed for AI integration. Through a survey of 1,000 decision-makers in the U.S., U.K., France, and the DACH region, the study reveals that, despite AI being a top spending priority for 50% of enterprises, only 20% feel that their data is adequately prepared to take full advantage of AI technologies.

Key Findings of the Survey

Data Migration as a Major Roadblock

One of the most significant findings from the report is that a staggering 96% of participants reported facing difficulties during the migration of their file data. This challenge is underscored by the fact that smooth data migration is crucial for unlocking AI capabilities, which can drive operational efficiencies and competitive advantages.

Misalignment in Spending Priorities

While investment in AI is viewed as essential for innovation and growth, there's a noticeable disconnection when it comes to investing in the necessary infrastructure for cloud data management. Despite nearly half of the respondents highlighting AI as their foremost financial focus, only one-third are allocating resources to cloud data management, which is essential for supporting AI initiatives.

Readiness and Structure of Business Data

The survey further paints a daunting picture regarding the state of business data. A mere 20% of respondents affirmed that their data is well-structured, accessible, and ready for AI projects. This disorganization poses an imminent risk, making it difficult for businesses to implement effective AI strategies.

Security Concerns Remain Prevalent

The growing reliance on AI has not diminished the importance of data security. Alarmingly, 34% of participants expressed concerns about data security and privacy, which remains a critical barrier to implementing AI functions. Organizations are aware that security must be prioritized as they advance their AI initiatives, necessitating robust protective measures.

The Advantage of a Hybrid Cloud Model

A promising transition to a hybrid cloud model is identified as a pivotal strategy for mitigating risks associated with data security and management. The report suggests that organizations that fail to adopt such a model are more prone to experience data security breaches, with 51% facing privacy concerns. Thus, implementing a hybrid model not only fosters compliance but also strengthens data integrity.

A Closer Look at Larger Enterprises

Notably, larger organizations reported greater challenges compared to smaller ones. As these companies expand, the complexity of data management increases, leading to missed opportunities for AI-driven efficiencies. While 46% of those surveyed anticipated that AI implementation would yield cost reductions, only 27% experienced measurable returns on their AI investments. This discrepancy highlights the critical role that cloud infrastructure plays in realizing AI benefits.

Conclusion

The findings from Nasuni’s report reveal an urgent need for organizations to reassess their data management frameworks to be AI-ready. As businesses invest in AI technologies, they must ensure that their foundational data strategies are robust, organized, and secure. Overcoming these hurdles will not only enhance their readiness for AI but will also empower them to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape effectively. By investing in unified storage solutions and a hybrid cloud approach, businesses can turn the challenge of unstructured data from an obstacle into an opportunity for growth and innovation. For further insights, you can download the full report directly from Nasuni’s website.