Build Versus Buy Decision-Making: Optimizing AI-Ready Infrastructure ROI

This IDC Perspective provides an in-depth analysis of considerations for optimizing AI-ready infrastructure ROI and addressing the critical decisions organizations face between building versus buying digital infrastructure for AI workloads. It highlights the complex requirements of AI deployments, including storage, compute power, network connectivity, and security. With digital infrastructure costs representing a significant portion of AI costs, the document advocates for a strategic approach that includes developing scalable architectures, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and institutionalizing governance and ROI programs. It also emphasizes the importance of anticipating technological advancements to ensure infrastructure innovation. This comprehensive framework aims to guide organizations in making informed decisions that align with their long-term business objectives and technological capabilities."AI infrastructure is not simply about supporting individual applications; it's about creating a foundational platform that enables a broad range of business use cases that drive innovation and growth. IDC research underscores the importance of a strategic, long-term approach to AI infrastructure, emphasizing collaboration across functional teams, and the need to continually adapt to technological advancements to ensure sustained excellence and differentiated competitive advantage in the marketplace," says Matt Eastwood, senior vice president, Enterprise Infrastructure, Cloud, Telecom, Security, Developers, Channels, and Enabling Technology, IDC.