Synopsis: In this Techstrong AI video interview, Riverbed CEO Dave Donatelli explains why many organizations are less prepared for generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) than anticipated, primarily due to data management challenges.

In this Techstrong AI episode, host Mike Vizard talks with Dave Donatelli, CEO of Riverbed, about a new survey revealing that while generative AI is a top priority for most companies, many are far from fully prepared to implement it. Donatelli explains that organizations are facing significant challenges, particularly around managing and organizing data. Only 37% of respondents feel they are ready to deploy AI effectively, and a common problem is that most companies’ data isn’t structured or accessible in a way that supports AI initiatives. Legal, political, and technical hurdles further complicate the landscape, and getting data into a usable state remains a significant challenge.

Donatelli notes that, despite the hype around generative AI, organizations are moving toward more practical, focused applications, like operational efficiency and cost savings. He discusses Riverbed’s approach to AI, particularly in the observability space, where they have built scalable data solutions and automations that reduce technical issues. While there is optimism in the C-suite about AI’s potential, there is a disconnect between executive expectations and the reality seen by IT teams, who estimate that broad AI implementation may still be three years away.