Agentic AI: Why this emerging technology will revolutionise multiple sectors

Agentic AI: The Next Frontier in Generative AI Technology

Generative AI (GenAI) is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a transformative force reshaping industries and redefining how businesses operate. While the initial wave of GenAI adoption has sparked optimism, not all organizations are reaping tangible benefits yet. However, a new evolution in this technology—agentic AI—promises to change that narrative, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for innovation and efficiency.

According to NTT DATA’s Global GenAI Report, 97% of CEOs anticipate a material impact from GenAI, and 99% of respondents are planning further investments in the technology. Yet, only 43% of the C-suite strongly agree that their current GenAI solutions are meeting expectations. This gap between optimism and outcomes highlights the need for more advanced and integrated AI solutions, which is where agentic AI comes into play.

What is Agentic AI?

Agentic AI represents a significant leap forward in the evolution of GenAI. Unlike traditional AI systems that rely on simple question-and-answer functionalities, agentic AI can execute tasks autonomously within workflows. It can analyze data in real-time, make decisions, and act on those decisions without human intervention. This ability to “think” and operate independently positions agentic AI as a game-changer for businesses.

NTT DATA’s report reveals that 95% of organizations agree that GenAI is driving a new level of creativity and innovation. Agentic AI takes this a step further by enabling the complete transformation of business workflows, unlocking value that was previously unattainable.

Real-World Applications of Agentic AI

The potential applications of agentic AI span multiple industries, from healthcare to finance and beyond. Here are some examples of how this technology is already making an impact:

• Healthcare: Hospitals and healthcare providers are leveraging AI-powered diagnostic tools to analyze medical images and detect diseases with greater accuracy and speed. This not only improves patient outcomes but also reduces the workload on medical professionals.
• Insurance: In the insurance sector, agentic AI is poised to manage end-to-end workflows for customer engagements. For instance, an AI agent could update customer data, process claims, and handle complex tasks based on customer inquiries, streamlining operations and enhancing customer satisfaction.
• Autonomous Vehicles: Agentic AI is a cornerstone of self-driving technology, enabling vehicles to make real-time decisions and interact with their environment in a way that mimics human agency.
• Automated Trading Systems: In finance, agentic AI is being used to execute trades autonomously, analyze market trends, and optimize investment strategies.

These examples illustrate the transformative potential of agentic AI, but they also underscore the importance of careful planning and execution to maximize its benefits.

Five Keys to Successful Agentic AI Deployment

As organizations prepare to integrate agentic AI into their operations, NTT DATA has identified five critical success factors to ensure smooth deployment and value creation:

1. Integration: Agentic AI must be part of a broader technology stack to deliver meaningful outcomes. Standalone solutions are insufficient; integration with other technologies and activities is essential.
2. Alignment: Organizations need to align their AI initiatives with their overall business strategy. According to NTT DATA’s study, only 51% of organizations have fully achieved this alignment, highlighting a significant area for improvement.
3. Preparation: Data readiness and governance are crucial. NTT DATA recommends a staggered data transformation framework to help organizations realize value incrementally while addressing governance challenges.
4. Operations: Mature AIOps (AI operations) are vital for maintaining and improving agentic AI models. This includes safeguarding against model drift, establishing guardrails, and creating robust user-feedback loops. Human oversight will remain a key consideration, especially for decisions requiring a balance of autonomy and accountability.
5. Partnerships: Collaborating with third-party service providers can accelerate innovation and reduce risks. Organizations should seek partners that support smart-agent ecosystems and offer access to the latest technologies.

By focusing on these five areas, businesses can position themselves to fully capitalize on the transformative potential of agentic AI.

The Road Ahead

While agentic AI is still in its early stages, its adoption is expected to accelerate rapidly. Now is the time for organizations to define their use cases, align resources, and identify strategic partners to ensure successful deployments. The opportunities are vast, but so are the challenges, making preparation and strategic planning more critical than ever.

As the technology matures, agentic AI will not only drive profits but also fundamentally change how organizations operate and how employees perform their jobs. From automating routine tasks to enabling entirely new business models, the possibilities are endless.

For more insights into the future of GenAI and agentic AI, check out NTT DATA’s Global GenAI Report.