AI in Practice: what is missing to really make a difference

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Artificial Intelligence Is No Longer Optional—It’s Here, and It’s Transforming Work as We Know It

According to BCG’s latest AI at Work 2025 report, 72% of professionals now use AI tools regularly, with adoption rates soaring in the Global South—India leads the way at an impressive 92%.

Yet behind these record-breaking numbers lies a surprising truth: most companies are still failing to capture the real value of this revolution.

Why? Because adopting AI is not enough. The future belongs to those who can rethink processes, upskill their workforce, and leverage technology as a competitive advantage.

1. High Adoption, Unevenly Distributed

Managers and business leaders show adoption rates above 85%, while frontline employees lag at just 51%. This “adoption ceiling” signals a structural barrier, characterized by a lack of training, inadequate tools, and limited leadership support.

2. Training: The #1 Obstacle

Only 36% of employees believe they’ve received adequate AI training. Research shows that just five hours of structured training—combining in-person sessions and coaching—dramatically changes outcomes: 82% of those trained become regular AI users. Today, most workers remain behind.

3. The Risk of Shadow AI

When companies fail to provide secure tools, 54% of employees turn to unauthorized AI solutions, creating major security and compliance risks.

4. From Rollout to Real Value

Deploying tools alone isn’t enough. Only 50% of companies are rethinking their processes from end to end to truly integrate AI into their workflows. Yet data is clear: those who redesign functions see measurable gains in productivity, quality, and employee satisfaction.


5. AI Agents: Big Expectations, Little Reality

While 77% of employees believe AI agents will be critical in the next 3–5 years, only 13% see them embedded in current business processes. Experiments are underway, but widespread adoption is still distant.


What Does This Mean for Businesses?

The message is clear: adopting AI is just the beginning—organizational transformation is the real game-changer. The report highlights three strategic priorities:

  • Invest in deep, continuous training
  • Provide secure, governed tools to prevent Shadow AI
  • Redesign processes to unlock AI’s full potential

Companies that act now won’t just survive the technological shift—they’ll create new value for both people and business.

Neodata AI Team
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As Neodata, we provide data, insight, articles, and news related to AI and Big Data.

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