TLDR: A new report from Thomson Reuters reveals that companies with a formal AI strategy are twice as likely to see revenue growth from AI and 3.5 times more likely to realize other key benefits. Despite this, only 22% of organizations have a defined AI strategy, indicating a significant gap between the potential of AI and its strategic implementation.
A recent report by Thomson Reuters, titled the ‘2025 Future of Professionals report’, highlights a stark contrast between organizations that have a clear AI strategy and those that do not. The study, which surveyed 2,275 professionals globally across the legal, risk, compliance, tax, and accounting sectors, found that companies with a visible AI strategy are twice as likely to report revenue growth as a result of their AI initiatives. Furthermore, these organizations are 3.5 times more likely to experience other critical benefits from AI compared to those with no significant AI adoption plans. The report underscores a critical reality in the current business landscape: while the potential of AI is widely acknowledged, its strategic implementation is lagging. A mere 22% of the surveyed organizations have a defined AI strategy. This suggests that a large number of businesses are missing out on the competitive advantages that a well-executed AI plan can offer.
The study also quantifies the efficiency gains from AI. Professionals currently using AI are projected to save an average of five hours per week in the next year, an increase from the four hours predicted in 2024. This time saving could translate into a significant economic impact, with an estimated $32 billion opportunity for the legal and tax industries in the United States alone.
Steve Hasker, President and CEO of Thomson Reuters, commented on the findings, stating, ‘Professional work is now being shaped by AI, and those who fail to adapt risk being left behind. Our research shows that organizations with AI strategies are seeing significant returns on investment, while those without are not.’
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The report also sheds light on the sentiment among professionals regarding AI’s impact. A substantial 80% of those surveyed believe that AI will have a high or transformational impact on their profession within the next five years. However, there is a disconnect between this long-term vision and the short-term reality, as only 38% expect to see significant changes in their own organizations this year. Despite the slow adoption of formal strategies, more than half (53%) of professionals report that their organizations are already seeing a return on investment from AI, primarily through improved efficiency and productivity. The report also points to a sense of urgency among some professionals, with three in ten feeling that their organizations are moving too slowly on AI adoption. Additionally, the study identified a skills gap as a potential hurdle, with 46% of respondents reporting a lack of necessary technology and data competencies within their teams.
