Accenture Report Says AI Investment Is Increasing, But Human Resources Are Not Ready

Illustration of AI (photo: Freepic)

JAKARTA - A 'Pulse of Change' study by Accenture reveals that despite economic uncertainty and the threat of recession, 86% of company executives in Asia Pacific plan to increase AI investment by 2025.

Where company leaders are aware of AI's positive impact, 58% reported the largest increase in productivity in IT/technology, followed by operational (43%) and research and development (41%).

But unfortunately, only 41% of leaders prioritize training and employee development to support this transformation. Thus, this ultimately creates a gap between AI availability and usage readiness.

Many leaders still lack investment in labor training, thus creating a readiness gap that limits the full potential for AI use, said Anop Sagoo, CEO, Accenture, Southeast Asia in its report.

In addition, this ambition and investment has not been balanced with labor readiness. As many as 73% of employees feel the speed of AI development exceeds their company's ability to provide adequate training.

"Many organizations are still too focused on implementing technology without fully increasing talent capabilities," added Jayant Bhargava, Country Managing Director, Accenture Indonesia.

In fact, Jayant added, transformation will only occur when human abilities, such as culture, skills, and processes develop in line with innovation.