As the tech world continues to grapple with the vast potential of generative AI, industry experts are cautioning against overly ambitious approaches, instead advocating for a focused and incremental strategy. At TechCrunch Disrupt 2024, a panel discussion featuring Chet Kapoor, Vanessa Larco, and George Fraser highlighted the crucial role of data management in unlocking AI's true value.

Kapoor, CEO of DataStax, emphasized that "there is no AI without data, and there is no AI without unstructured data at scale." The panel agreed that prioritizing product-market fit over scale is key in the early days of AI, with Larco suggesting a pragmatic approach: "Work backwards for what you're trying to accomplish – what are you trying to solve for, and what is the data that you need?"

Fraser, CEO of Fivetran, echoed this sentiment, advising companies to "only solve the problems you have today" and focus on real issues rather than trying to splash generative AI across the entire organization. The experts warned that a hasty, unfocused approach can lead to inaccurate and expensive outcomes. By adopting a more measured strategy, companies can harness the power of AI to drive meaningful transformation.