Report Reveals Security, Access Compliance, Performance and Accuracy Concerns Prevent Enterprises from Effectively Leveraging AI

AUSTIN, Texas – September 10, 2024—M-Files, the leader in knowledge work automation, today announced the first Market Momentum Index: AI and Unstructured Data Management, conducted by Deep Analysis with support from M-Files and AIIM, which reveals the state of organizational readiness for AI adoption, the preparation of unstructured data for AI integration, and the tools, techniques, and skill sets being employed to support these initiatives. The research survey included 500 responses from US-based enterprises operating in five key industries: Financial and Insurance; Professional, Scientific and Technical Services; Manufacturing; Mining, Quarrying, Oil and Gas Extraction; and Utilities.

Key findings from the study reveal that most organizations have passed the experimentation phase and are now deploying AI into their day-to-day operations. However, key barriers still prevent enterprises from fully capitalizing on AI’s potential. While concerns about AI hallucinations, ethics, and bias often dominate headlines, respondents cited security and access compliance (43%) and performance and accuracy (40%) as more pressing challenges. Of those surveyed, 58% of respondents say they have identified multiple sources of unstructured data. 75% of respondents said they use Microsoft SharePoint for storing information and within that subset, 64% said they had up to 100 sites/instances, 36% said over 100, and 3% of those believed they had over 1,000 instances. These multiple sources and inconsistencies will have a fundamental impact on how AI can effectively operate and produce expected results.

Unlike other vendors, M-Files addresses these concerns and provides organizations with the mandatory enablers for successful AI deployment: connectivity, confidentiality, and curation. The platform seamlessly integrates data from major storage systems and software solutions, automatically classifying it to provide AI with the high-quality data inputs necessary to drive real value. M-Files enhances information security by ensuring that only authorized users can access sensitive data, utilizing advanced metadata tagging for granular access controls. Additionally, all documents in M-Files are classified and placed in context so that AI accesses only relevant information. By placing content in context and automating version control and content governance, M-Files enhances search capabilities and improves AI's accuracy compared to traditional methods.

"The study reveals a significant opportunity for organizations to excel with AI and it has the potential to transform how we work, freeing employees from repetitive, time-consuming tasks and turning information into a driver of growth. However, to realize the benefits of AI, organizations will need to establish a foundation of well-organized, secure, and accessible data that AI can use to enhance operational efficiency and drive innovation. The M-Files metadata foundation drives superior AI experiences by creating a unique, customer-specific information model that surrounds all content, ensuring safe and high-quality results," said Antti Nivala, founder and CEO, M-Files.

"To truly harness the transformative power of AI, organizations must prioritize robust information management as the benefits of AI are deeply connected with the quality and accessibility of the data it processes. Most of an enterprise's knowledge resides in unstructured data and without a strategic approach to managing this information, the benefits of AI will remain out of reach. The study confirms that it is critical for organizations to implement the right strategy and solutions to address quality and accessibility of information," said Alan Pelz-Sharpe, founder, Deep Analysis.

“Unstructured data management is essential to success with AI by ensuring accurate and current data for AI. This research isn't merely informative; it's a call to action to use these insights to transform your organization's approach, turning data complexity into AI-driven advantage,” said Tori Miller Liu, CIP,
president & CEO, AIIM.

To learn how business leaders are utilizing AI to analyze and manage unstructured data, register for M-Files' upcoming webinar with Deep Analysis and AIIM: “Learn How to Harness the Transformative Power of AI for Information Management," on September 19th at 1:00 P.M. EDT. M-Files CMO Laura Carson will be joined by Alan Pelz-Sharpe, founder and principal analyst of Deep Analysis and Tori Miller Liu, president and CEO of AIIM, to introduce how unstructured data and its management software are influencing the adoption of AI in enterprises.

Download the complete Market Momentum Index: AI and Unstructured Data Management for a full analysis of the data. For more information on how M-Files is transforming knowledge work, schedule a demo or visit: www.m-files.com.

Download a free 30 day M-Files trial to experience the leading platform for knowledge work automation.

About M-Files
M-Files is the leading platform for knowledge work automation. With the M-Files platform, knowledge workers can find information faster, work smarter, and achieve more. M-Files features an innovative metadata-driven architecture, embedded workflow engine, and advanced artificial intelligence. This enables customers to eliminate information chaos, improve process efficiency, and automate security and compliance. For more information, visit www.m-files.com.

About Deep Analysis
Deep Analysis is a leading industry analyst firm specializing in providing innovative insights and strategic advisory services for enterprises navigating the complexities of digital transformation. With a focus on emerging technologies, including AI, automation, blockchain, and data management, Deep Analysis delivers in-depth research, market analysis, and actionable recommendations tailored to the unique needs of businesses across various industries. Our team of seasoned analysts leverages a wealth of experience and a global perspective to empower organizations with the knowledge and foresight needed to make informed decisions, drive innovation, and maintain a competitive edge in an ever-evolving market landscape.

About the Association for Intelligent Information Management
Founded in 1944, the Association for Intelligent Information Management (AIIM) is a nonprofit organization serving information leaders in over 67 countries worldwide. AIIM's vision is to create a world where every organization benefits from intelligent information and data management to achieve better business outcomes. AIIM helps information leaders manage and prepare unstructured data for AI and automation by providing advice, certification, training, and peer-to-peer support. Through practical and approachable resources, AIIM enables organizations to leverage their information assets effectively, ultimately leading to improved business performance and success.

Media Contacts:
Debra Dekelbaum, M-Files
debra.dekelbaum@m-files.com
+1 (972) 516-4210, ext. 272

Ali Wolf, fama PR
M-Files@famapr.com