As workers develop a more sophisticated relationship with AI, leaders are becoming clearer on their expectations for its role within the organization.
Today’s Business Leaders are more likely to see AI creating roles than replacing them.
59%
Business Leaders
62%
ITDMs
say AI has already created, or will soon create, new roles or teams.
And while 63% of ITDMs and 64% of Business Leaders agree that their organization communicates clearly about how AI and new technologies may impact roles, only 44% of Knowledge Workers agree, representing a gap in perceived clarity between those setting AI strategy and those living with its consequences. This is an opportunity for businesses to bridge the gap. Technology companies report the clearest AI communication (63%), while Government & Public Sector organizations report the least (45%).
The investment gap is becoming a readiness gap.
As AI becomes a business advantage, organizations risk falling behind if they fail to invest. Cost and security remain the primary barriers to adoption across businesses of every size, with security concerns increasing from 37% among small businesses to 54% among enterprises.
At the same time, a lack of ROI is the least frequently cited obstacle, suggesting that readiness, governance, and risk management, rather than perceived value, are the factors slowing adoption.
AI is reshaping roles, teams, and investment priorities. For leaders, the next challenge is execution:
turning AI ambition into clear strategy, trusted communication, and credible risk management.