As the government navigates the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), federal agencies report that scalability, diverse data management, and rapid deployment are key to AI project success, according to a new research study released by General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT).
For the study, AI in Full Bloom, GDIT’s Digital Consulting practice surveyed 325 experts and decision makers across defense, civilian and intelligence agencies to examine how agencies are taking AI from pilot to production. The research explores how government organizations are currently deploying AI, the impact of generative AI, ways agencies manage risks to ensure responsible AI application, and challenges related to scaling, data diversity and workforce readiness.
The study reveals that agencies are embracing the power of AI, but despite significant momentum, converting pilot projects into scalable, operational successes poses challenges. Key findings include:
- 58% of respondents cite scalability issues as the top challenge in transitioning AI projects from pilot to production.
- On average, agencies advance AI projects to production within just 14 months.
- Leveraging AI for data analytics and reporting is prevalent among 52% of respondents, underscoring its pivotal role in enhancing decision making.
- While 38% of respondents achieve richer insights by using diverse data formats (text, images, and video), 33% say their projects fail for the same reason. This underscores the importance of robust data management strategies.
The research further highlights key best practices essential for the broad adoption of AI within agencies:
- 73% of respondents recommended leveraging external partnerships to fill technical gaps and elevate project outcomes.
- 60% stressed the necessity of establishing clear data governance and quality standards.
- 53% recognized the importance of integrating AI solutions with existing workflows to ensure alignment between solutions and user expectations.
“AI has the transformative potential to redefine how the government operates, makes decisions and delivers services,” said Ben Gianni, GDIT senior vice president and chief technology officer. “However, transitioning AI successfully from pilot to production requires planning, technological adeptness, and organizational agility. Agencies that strategically adopt AI will be better positioned to enhance operational efficiencies and advance mission effectiveness.”
The research findings will be discussed in a public webinar on May 15 with leaders from government and GDIT.
GDIT is a business unit of General Dynamics, a global aerospace and defense company that offers a broad portfolio of products and services in business aviation; ship construction and repair; land combat vehicles, weapons systems and munitions; and technology products and services. General Dynamics employs more than 100,000 people worldwide and generated $42.3 billion in revenue in 2023. More information about General Dynamics Information Technology is available at www.gdit.com. More information about General Dynamics is available at www.gd.com.
