this light (  a ! inside a yellow triangle) came on my buddy's bike.  according to the manual, "illuminates when the motorcycle diagnostics detects a problem".  Very informative there Ducati 

anyone shed some light on this?  importantly, is it ok to still operate the bike? I'm guessing so since the manual doesn't say otherwise.

If the bike runs reasonably well you can ride with caution to the shop.  Also read page 30 in your owner's manual.  Some info is available.