Most companies ‘unsure’ how AI will transform work: report

Findings show AI adoption is lacking across Australia and New Zealand

Most companies ‘unsure’ how AI will transform work: report

Almost half of businesses across Australia and New Zealand believe they don’t know how artificial intelligence (AI) will be used to transform work, according to a new report.

Stats from Solve by Talent found 47.8% of respondents said they’re ‘not sure,’ when asked if their organisation is planning on using AI to transform areas of the business.

Despite this, it is claimed AI is changing the way individuals and business approach work, after surveying 850 business leaders and technology professionals across both Australia and New Zealand.

“It’s important for us to evolve, otherwise we risk losing relevance in the market,” a survey participant noted.

Another participant emphasised that businesses cannot ignore a change that is already here – highlighting the need to accelerate AI adoption.

Other key findings from the report are:

  • 12% of organisations plan on hiring an AI specialist or leader in the next 12-18 months
  • AI hasn’t impacted workforce planning for over half of organisations (55%)
  • 90% of business leaders believe AI will positively impact their team’s work in the next two years.
  • A quarter are concerned they’ll lose their job to agentic AI systems (25%)
  • Over half or organisations are offering AI training and upskilling opportunities (52%)

Barriers around AI adoption

Adopting AI is a struggle for many business – from the rapid pace of change to potential risks involved with the technology – but the biggest barriers include organisations not having a clear strategy or goals, the report finds.

Over 80% of all respondents quoted either ‘no strategy’ or ‘unclear goals’ as the biggest obstacle in keeping up with AI, which highlights the importance of leadership alignment and a clear plan before exploring AI and automation.

Other concerns included lack of clear ownership and having a limited budget – hampering the adoption of new technologies as a result.

Implementing AI through strategy and leadership

AI adoption without any clear direction can become problematic – with many leaders indicating they’re still finding their footing when it comes to how new technology can be implemented.

In fact, the report finds only 5% of surveyed organisations feel they’re responding ‘extremely well’ to AI – calling for stronger direction, education, and support.

“With only 36% of organisations currently dedicating teams to AI initiatives, this leaves a huge opportunity for the other 64% to catch up and leverage its potential,” Tom Mackintosh, Managing Director of Solve by Talent, said.

Building the right AI teams can transform businesses and those that are getting in early and doing it well, will be far better off than those that aren’t. From improving efficiency to driving innovation, the opportunities can be endless.”