Navigating AI Transparency and Data Management for SMBs

At the recent Adobe Summit 2025, I had the opportunity to speak with Anjul Bhambhri, SVP for Adobe Experience Cloud, about the transformative impact of AI on the creative industry and customer service. While the keynotes showcased impressive products, Bhambhri’s insights offered a deeper understanding of how AI can drive genuine value for both customers and CX workers.

One of the central themes of our discussion was the importance of transparency in AI strategy. Bhambhri emphasized that businesses must actively listen to their customers to identify unique pain points. This not only helps in creating impactful products but also fosters a stronger relationship between businesses and their clients.

As AI continues to evolve, the lack of guidance from governments and regulatory organizations can leave many businesses, especially SMBs, feeling lost. Bhambhri pointed out that data governance is crucial. Companies must define clear roles and responsibilities when it comes to managing customer data, complying with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and FERPA.

However, the challenge remains that implementing robust data management practices often requires significant capital and resources, which can be a hurdle for smaller companies. To address this, Bhambhri shared Adobe’s approach to categorizing data into hot, warm, and cold storage. This strategy not only optimizes resource management but also minimizes environmental impact.

In a world where data production is skyrocketing, establishing a solid foundation for data management is essential. Think about how often you’ve cleared out your iCloud photo library—it's a simple reminder of the exponential growth of data we all face.

Moreover, companies should consider a balanced approach to storage by splitting it across SSDs and HDDs. This can help in finding the most optimal balance between storage acquisition and energy consumption, making data management a bit more sustainable.

Ultimately, Bhambhri stressed the importance of keeping clients informed throughout their transactions. Whether it’s notifying them about data storage changes or giving them the option to engage more actively, transparency is key.

In conclusion, small businesses looking to ride the AI wave should take a page from Adobe’s playbook: prioritize transparency with customers and manage data responsibly from both regulatory and environmental perspectives. With these principles in mind, SMBs can navigate the complex landscape of AI with confidence.

Cited: https://www.techradar.com/pro/want-to-build-an-ai-strategy-adobe-svp-advises-you-start-with-transparency