How to get started with agentic AI

The rapid growth of agentic AI in enterprise software is projected to surge from 1% in 2024 to 33% by 2028, according to Gartner forecasts. Agentic AI systems are sophisticated artificial intelligence programs that can learn from diverse data sources and autonomously handle complex tasks, offering businesses improved efficiency and enhanced customer interactions.

Current landscape: The technology is gaining traction across healthcare, retail, and financial services sectors due to its ability to process complex data and automate operations.

• These AI systems can analyze multiple data types including text and video to provide more nuanced customer interactions
• Organizations can reduce operational costs by automating routine tasks like invoice processing and content summarization
• Small businesses and startups are implementing agentic AI for specialized functions like QA testing and recruitment

Implementation challenges: Despite clear benefits, many organizations face significant hurdles in adopting agentic AI technology.

• Lack of AI literacy and specialized skills within existing workforce
• Insufficient market-ready tools and infrastructure
• Need for substantial upfront investment in resources and training

Key recommendations for adoption: Organizations can successfully integrate agentic AI by following a structured approach to implementation.

• Modernize technology infrastructure to support AI operations, potentially transitioning to cloud-based platforms
• Invest in comprehensive workforce training programs, noting that only 6% of companies have currently upskilled their employees in AI
• Launch pilot programs to evaluate effectiveness and gather real-world feedback
• Foster organizational culture change to build trust in automated systems
• Implement robust data management practices with strong governance and accountability measures

Workforce considerations: The transition to agentic AI requires significant organizational change management.

• Organizations must help employees adapt to new workflows with less direct oversight
• Open communication is essential for managing resistance from traditionally-minded staff
• Continuous training and development programs are crucial for building necessary skills

Data management imperatives: Success with agentic AI depends heavily on maintaining high-quality data practices.

• Organizations must implement comprehensive data governance frameworks
• Ethical data usage and transparency measures are essential
• Regular evaluation and improvement of data management practices should be ongoing

Future outlook: While agentic AI implementation requires significant organizational commitment and resources, its potential impact on enterprise operations continues to grow. The technology’s ability to enhance customer experiences while reducing operational costs suggests it will become increasingly central to business operations, particularly as implementation barriers decrease and more market-ready solutions become available.