The recent surge in GenAI adoption highlights both its potential and challenges. Many businesses are beginning to see tangible benefits from applying GenAI to specific use cases, but widespread implementation presents challenges, says Shukri Dabaghi, senior VP, EMEA Emerging Markets and Asia Pacific at SAS. In this interview, we speak with Sudhir Chowdhary about the role of data analytics and SAS' strategy to support different industries. Edited excerpts:
How is your approach with GenAI different from other players?
SAS' AI strategy leverages GenAI through its Viya 4 platform to significantly improve organizational productivity and efficiency. Unlike traditional approaches, SAS Gen AI solutions integrate advanced analytics and domain-specific knowledge to deliver validated, ethical AI models tailored to customer needs. Combining GenAI with SAS Viya helps organizations derive actionable intelligence quickly and effectively – not just comprehensive answers, but answers that are directly applicable to specific business challenges. SAS stands out in the Gen AI space by delivering powerful, fit-for-purpose solutions, generating measurable value and fostering a culture of data-driven excellence.
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Why is data analytics becoming so important across industries?
Analytics transforms organizations into resilient and agile ones. Strategic use of analytics such as SAS Viya helps businesses optimize processes, predict market changes and respond quickly to customer demands. Leveraging AI-driven insights, organizations can personalize customer interactions, predict trends and innovate rapidly, which is essential in fast-changing industries. Analytics also ensures compliance and effective risk management, which is crucial in a regulated environment like India. Embracing analytics not only ensures survival but also creates deep peace of mind and confidence to thrive in a competitive global marketplace.
What are the new aspects driving growth in the Indian market?
Our trajectory in the Indian market has been remarkable with strong double-digit growth and commitment to innovation. India's market size and forward-thinking approach in adopting data and AI is noteworthy globally. Indian companies have a strong appetite to explore and adopt cutting-edge solutions. Our investments in the region, including the second largest R&D centre after the US, underpin our confidence in India's ability to drive innovation.
The key to our success lies in understanding the unique needs of Indian businesses, many of which manage a customer base that is orders of magnitude larger than global norms. Be it banking or insurance, Indian organizations face the challenge of catering to diverse and rapidly changing consumer preferences. Hence, AI and data analytics have become a strategic imperative, helping businesses understand and meet market demands effectively.
What strategies is SAS adopting to capture new customer segments in India?
Our approach in India is focused on understanding our clients' challenges and providing customized solutions that deliver tangible business outcomes. We support revenue assurance and fraud detection in the government sector. Similarly, financial institutions use SAS to quickly process vast amounts of data and develop complex models that support critical decision-making processes.
