What's Happening?
The 2026 AI in Professional Services Report by Thomson Reuters reveals that AI adoption has significantly increased across professional services, with organization-wide usage nearly doubling to 40% in 2026.
Despite widespread use, strategic integration and measurement of AI's impact remain limited. Only 18% of organizations track the return on investment (ROI) of AI tools, and communication about AI use is inconsistent. Many corporate departments desire AI integration in client matters, but awareness of its implementation is low. Firms face conflicting client instructions regarding AI use, highlighting the need for clearer strategies and dialogue.
Why It's Important?
The rapid adoption of AI in professional services underscores its transformative potential in industries such as legal, tax, and accounting. However, the lack of strategic integration and measurement poses challenges for firms seeking to leverage AI effectively. The inconsistency in communication and strategy could hinder the realization of AI's full benefits, impacting client satisfaction and business outcomes. As AI continues to evolve, firms that develop clear strategies and metrics for AI use are likely to gain a competitive advantage, influencing industry standards and client expectations.
What's Next?
Professional services firms are expected to focus on developing clearer strategies for AI integration and measurement. This includes improving communication with clients about AI use and aligning AI initiatives with broader business goals. As agentic AI tools emerge, firms will need to prepare for their adoption and potential impact on business operations. The report suggests that firms should lead discussions on AI use, fostering collaboration and shared understanding with clients to maximize AI's benefits.
