SAP CFO: AI's real value lies beyond chatbots

The finance chief of SAP suggested that artificial intelligence in enterprise software must progress beyond basic applications like chatbots and coding tools. He explained that significant productivity gains from AI will stem from its integration into complex business processes, where data accuracy, reliability, and cost management are paramount.

Currently, most AI spending is on coding assistants and chatbots, which involve less risk if errors occur. However, applying AI to core functions such as finance or supply chain operations is more challenging due to the compounding risks of errors across multiple steps and compliance standards.

SAP's executive noted that effective enterprise AI involves building governed systems around specific business needs, rather than using generic large language models. This necessitates making internal data usable and well-managed. He also highlighted that the most advanced AI model isn't always the best fit; companies should prioritize the cheapest, safest, and most reliable tool for the job.