Navigating the Promise and Peril of AI
Is your organization excited—and maybe a little uneasy— about artificial intelligence? You’re not alone.
There’s a lot of buzz surrounding AI—especially generative AI tools that can write content, analyze data, and boost productivity in ways we’ve never seen before. But along with that potential comes a wave of uncertainty, especially around security.
The good news? That caution is actually a strength.
Why Security Should Lead the AI Conversation
Here’s the reality: AI can be both an incredible opportunity and a genuine risk.
Nearly 70% of organizations recently reported that AI adoption is their top security concern. And it’s easy to understand why—new technologies always come with unknowns.
But being cautious doesn’t mean being fearful. It means being smart.
As IT professionals, especially those supporting small to mid-sized local businesses, our role is to explore emerging tech through a lens of both curiosity and caution. Asking “What could go wrong?” is only half the battle. The more important question is, “How can we safeguard against it?”
AI in Action: Microsoft Copilot as a Safe Starting Point
Let’s talk specifics.
Take Microsoft Copilot—a powerful generative AI tool that’s already built into Microsoft 365 apps like Word, Excel, and Outlook. It helps users draft emails, analyze spreadsheets, generate documents, and more, all within the tools they already know and use every day.
And it’s not just about speed. It’s about efficiency, consistency, and boosting the impact of your existing workforce.
From a security standpoint, Microsoft has made Copilot a smart choice for businesses. Your data stays within your Microsoft 365 ecosystem, access is permission-based, and nothing is shared outside your organization’s secure environment.
That’s exactly the kind of innovation-local companies can lean into with confidence.
The Real Risk? Shadow AI Tools
Still, it’s worth noting: not all AI tools are created equal.
Some free or consumer-grade generative AI platforms require users to upload data to public servers, where control over that data can be lost. This opens the door to accidental data leaks or non-compliance with regulatory standards.
That’s why IT leaders need visibility into the tools employees are using—and a strategy to guide them toward secure, approved solutions.
The Path Forward: Curiosity + Caution = Confidence
The businesses that will thrive with AI are the ones that ask the right questions, prioritize data protection, and take a measured approach to adoption.
So, if you’re feeling both excited and unsure about how to bring AI into your workplace—you’re right where you should be.
Let’s Talk AI Strategy
Need help evaluating AI tools or implementing them securely in your organization? The team at Acroment Technologies is here to guide you through it. Reach out to us today to start a conversation about your AI roadmap!
