81% of Businesses Trust AI, But Just 27% Use It Strategically, New Report Finds
A new report reveals a disconnect between confidence in AI and real-world implementation across business departments.
WSI, one of the world’s largest AI and digital marketing agencies, has released its 2025 AI Business Insights Report, revealing a critical gap between business leaders’ confidence in artificial intelligence and their ability to implement it where it drives real impact.
Based on a global survey of more than 600 business leaders—primarily from small and medium-sized business owners—the report finds that while 81% believe AI can help them achieve business goals, only 27% report it’s discussed regularly across their organization.
“Businesses aren’t short on curiosity, they’re short on clarity,” said Valerie Brown-Dufour, President of WSI. “AI won’t move the needle unless companies have a plan. That’s why WSI focuses on helping clients connect AI to real outcomes—through practical roadmaps, training, and expert guidance.”
AI Misses the Mark in HR, Finance, and Customer Service
While AI adoption is more common in Marketing (43%) and Management (54%), it's far less present in key support functions: HR (9%), Finance (9%), and Customer Service (19%). These gaps, the report suggests, are slowing down efforts to create fully integrated, AI-enabled operations.
“These aren’t peripheral teams. They’re the backbone of every business,” said Brown-Dufour. “When AI is left out of finance, HR, and customer service, businesses miss out on efficiency, insight, and employee satisfaction.”
Strategic Partners Are 2.5x More Likely to Succeed with AI
One of the report’s most compelling insights: companies working with strategic growth partners, such as WSI, are 2.5 times more likely to succeed with AI. These businesses aren’t just experimenting with tools: they’re aligning AI with specific goals and outcomes.
WSI’s AI Adoption Roadmap offers a guided approach that helps organizations prioritize use cases, build internal support, and implement at a pace that fits their team and resources.
“AI isn’t a magic wand,” said Brown-Dufour. “It’s a business lever—and with the right strategy, businesses can turn interest into action and gain a meaningful competitive edge.”
Highlights from the 2025 AI Business Insights Report
The 24-page report also explores the rise of self-taught AI users, the lack of formal training programs, and the growing role of middle managers in driving adoption. It examines which industries are moving fastest, and how companies expect AI to reshape job roles in the year ahead.
Download the full report here. Or visit our press release for more information.
About the Author
Cheryl is the Director of Marketing and Communications at the WSI Home Office. She has experience in inbound marketing, content marketing & social media marketing.
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