Software developers

AI trials flopping due to lack of dedication, says Deloitte

Worldwide survey shows lack of success in getting projects live
Pro

29 January 2026

Yet another international study has highlighted the limited benefits of AI in large organisations.

A new Deloitte survey of thousands of managers worldwide shows poor success in actually getting trials of AI into production.

This has nothing to do with faulty technology, nor with lack of enthusiasm or commitment from engaged employees. The advisory group talks about the proof-of-concept trap.

 

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Many pilot projects fail because the investments in infrastructure, system integration, security controls and ongoing maintenance are much more complex than controlled pilot environments. Consequently, this ensured that only a quarter of respondents actually brought half or more trials into production.

“There is a significant gap between access to AI and actual activation of the technology.”

The survey found that only 34% of organisations are using artificial intelligence to fundamentally transform their operations. Another 30% adapt core processes around AI technology, while 37% deploy the technology without significant process changes. This reluctance is paying off: while three quarters of companies hope to achieve revenue growth with AI, only 20% are currently succeeding.

Strikingly, redesigning work processes and functions lags behind technological ambitions. An overwhelming majority of 84% have not yet adapted jobs to AI capabilities, despite expectations that 36% of jobs can be fully automated within a year.

Fundamentally, 60% of respondents’ employees have access to a production-ready AI environment. Only the wait is on for dialed-in workflows and infrastructure.

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