Opinion piece / Crossed view – MEGA International – June 2024
Crossed view
Eva Jaidan, Head of Data Analytics and AI at MEGA International, and Samuel Holcman, Managing Director of the Enterprise Architecture Center Of Excellence (EACOE).
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is causing profound transformations within businesses, fundamentally reshaping the role of enterprise architects (EA). EA experts are encouraged to capitalize on these advancements, particularly through the lens of “augmented intelligence” – a term coined by Samuel Holcman – in business. This approach promotes the seamless integration of augmented intelligence and enhanced analytics, paving the way for new avenues of innovation and operational excellence.
Artificial intelligence: demystifying “Shadow AI”
The utilization of Large Language Models (LLMs) in artificial intelligence relies on the foundational principle of “quality in, quality out”. Regrettably, the expansive response capabilities of LLMs like ChatGPT have sparked increasing enthusiasm for the sharing of vast amounts of data.
Shared data may contain confidential information, intellectual property, or sensitive business data. Collaborating with a system using open AI, like ChatGPT, presents different security risks. Indeed, this AI system could assimilate sensitive information without the explicit consent of the holders of this data, a phenomenon being described by Sam Holcman as “Shadow AI”.
Shadow AI occurs when stakeholders or employees bypass established technology channels. Therefore, it is recommended that organizations create a “sandbox” zone separate from the usual channels and isolated from the main network. This sandbox provides an environment in which staff can explore the capabilities of AI in a controlled manner, without compromising data security.
What organizations really need is what Mr. Holcman calls “Enterprise Augmented Intelligence” through a powerful AI tool capable of providing “augmented insights” when powered by quality data.
Unlocking human potential through seamless AI integration
While AI raises apprehensions about potential job displacement, viewing it solely as a threat overlooks its capacity to enhance human capabilities, as evidenced by historical technological advancements. Training and education play a key role in this process, as AI has become an integral part of our reality and must be harnessed to its full potential.
It is essential to align the use of artificial intelligence with the overall strategy of the organization for smooth integration of applications with data, processes, and collaboration between stakeholders. In a landscape where the internet simplifies transactions, software provides tools, and AI leverages data to make informed decisions, training and education become crucial.
The transformative power of AI is reshaping the role of enterprise architects. Instead of resisting, they should embrace the opportunities presented by an architectural landscape primed for the integration of artificial intelligence. Leveraging augmented intelligence, companies can fortify internal structures and practices, thereby enhancing resilience and adaptability.
Boosting Traditional EA with Advances in AI
Enterprise architecture requires a deep understanding of the elements crucial to crafting an effective business strategy, thereby providing various alternatives to consider. The key lies in the ability to analyze items quickly and efficiently. By using enterprise architecture and artificial intelligence tools wisely, it is possible to model different options, and analyze various processes, data sources and strategies. Technologies such as artificial intelligence allow enterprise architecture experts to evaluate these elements faster and more accurately than before.
At its core, technology has always revolved around processing data. When viewed through the lens of enterprise architecture, an AI-powered machine learning tool can adeptly craft roadmaps tailored for businesses. Through advanced AI analytics, automation, and recommendation systems, enterprise architecture facilitates more informed and expedited decision-making processes.
Companies must realize the power of Large Language Models (LLM) and their ability to revolutionize businesses. It is essential that organizations are vigilant about what data is used and how it is leveraged. Enterprise architecture (EA) professionals are called upon to seize these opportunities through augmented intelligence. AI algorithms enhance the capabilities of EA experts, but an understanding of AI maturity is crucial for secure integration.
About the authors:
Eva Jaidan is the lead Data Scientist at MEGA. With a PhD in Industrial AI and an applied mathematics background, she brings over 8 years of expertise in applying AI and developing end-to-end data science products. Eva is dedicated to delivering value to our customers through innovative AI-empowered products. She leads the AI and Analytics strategy at MEGA, ensuring that our solutions drive transformation and help organizations reach their goals.
Samuel B. (Sam) Holcman is the Chairman of the Pinnacle Business Group, Inc., the Managing Director of the Enterprise Architecture Center Of Excellence (EACOE), and the Business Architecture Center Of Excellence (BACOE), and the President of the Zachman Institute for Framework Advancement (ZIFA). Mr. Holcman is considered one of the world’s foremost experts in Enterprise Architecture and Business Architecture.
About MEGA International
MEGA International is a global SaaS software company offering solutions for Enterprise Architecture, Business Process Analysis, Governance, Risk & Compliance, and Data Governance operating in 52 countries. MEGA created HOPEX, a collaborative platform that provides a single repository to help companies collect, visualize, and analyze information to plan better and adapt to change. mega.com
About the Enterprise Architecture Center Of Excellence (EACOE)
EACOE is the leading training, consulting, and practitioner-certification organization in Enterprise Architecture. Services are available to support the development of business and technology plans, ranging from Business wide plans to program specific plans. These services analyze the business unit or program organization and develop strategies and plans for systems and technologies that support the organization’s business objectives. The Enterprise Framework for Enterprise Architecture guides the Enterprise architecture activities. EACOE.org
