Bridging the Value Gap in AI Adoption for Businesses

KPMG's recent report, “From discovery to deployment: unlocking value through an agentic AI strategy,” highlights a significant disconnect between the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and the realization of their potential value within organizations. This gap is critical as businesses increasingly seek to leverage AI for competitive advantage. The findings suggest that while many companies are investing in AI, only a small fraction are seeing established returns on those investments, raising questions about the effectiveness of current strategies.

The KPMG Global AI Quarterly Pulse Survey for Q2 2026 reveals that a mere 7 percent of organizations report having a clear return on investment from their AI initiatives. This statistic underscores a broader concern within the industry. Respondents identified data security, privacy, and risk management as the primary barriers to effective AI implementation, with 33 percent citing these issues. Additionally, 24 percent of executives expressed pressure to demonstrate value to investors and boards, indicating that the stakes for successful AI integration are high. The emphasis on responsible AI and governance, noted by 28 percent of respondents, further reflects the growing recognition that ethical considerations must be woven into AI strategies.

The concept of “agentic AI” is central to KPMG's findings. This approach involves not only the introduction of AI technologies but also their integration into organizational workflows in a way that is measurable and commercially viable. As companies strive to embed agentic AI across their operations, they face challenges related to outdated operating models, governance structures, and workforce capabilities. The report suggests that while the potential for AI to transform organizations is significant, the current infrastructure often limits its impact, leading to increased operational risks.

The competitive landscape is shifting as organizations recognize the need to adapt their strategies to fully harness AI's capabilities. Companies that successfully implement agentic AI can expect to gain a substantial edge over their competitors. However, those that fail to address the foundational issues highlighted in the survey may find themselves at a disadvantage, unable to meet investor expectations or capitalize on AI's transformative potential.

Looking ahead, the implications of these findings are profound. Organizations must prioritize the development of robust governance frameworks and invest in workforce training to effectively manage AI technologies. This will not only mitigate risks associated with data privacy and security but also enhance the overall effectiveness of AI initiatives. As businesses navigate this complex landscape, those that adopt a proactive approach to integrating agentic AI into their core strategies are likely to emerge as leaders in their respective markets.

The future of AI in business hinges on the ability to bridge the gap between deployment and value realization. Companies that can successfully align their AI strategies with clear governance and operational frameworks will not only improve their return on investment but also position themselves to innovate and adapt in an increasingly competitive environment. This shift towards a more strategic and responsible approach to AI will define the next phase of technological advancement across industries.