Jinfo: Data-led AI initiatives - the role for information managers

Data-led AI initiatives - the role for information managers
Jinfo Blog

11th February 2025

Abstract

As algorithms and large language models (LLMs) become commoditised, the AI conversation is shifting away from the technology.

Data is the ultimate differentiator and without data, there is no AI.

In this article, we reflect on the opportunity for information managers to leverage their expertise to source and manage high quality data for data-led AI initiatives.

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Generative AI is continuing to evolve rapidly, this transformation is being accelerated by players like DeepSeek, the Chinese developer offering open-source LLMs at a fraction of the cost of established providers.

With more affordable and scalable GenAI solutions, the focus is shifting.

Mark Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, observes:

"The real treasure of AI isn't the UI or the model—they've become commodities. Just like oxygen for us, what breathes life into AI is the data and metadata that describes the data to the model.... Data is the new gold."

Source: Mark Benioff on LinkedIn

For information managers, who excel at identifying, evaluating, and acquiring reliable and relevant data sources, this is an opportunity to combine this knowledge with their deep understanding of organisational practices and processes.

Although data is the ultimate differentiator in the GenAI era, it is not simply about having access to lots of data. Rather, it is having the right data, to apply to specific business outcomes, which is critical.

And so, a move to "data-led" AI projects is underway. Organisations should prioritise the collection, integration and cleansing of relevant data. This ensures that the insights generated by their AI are built on accurate and reliable information, thus addressing clear business priorities and objectives.

It's also worth noting that the number and variety of data providers is expected to continue mushrooming, with many organisations themselves already developing business units dedicated to monetising their information assets.

So, those information teams that can identify and acquire relevant and reliable data sources will be setting themselves up for success and safeguarding their future.

Remember: without data there is no AI!

For more information on how you can step up to this challenge, check out the Jinfo Focus resources on Content Portfolio, Artificial Intelligence and Information Risk.

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