Confidence among UK business leaders’ readiness for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and their actual plans for effective implementation is mismatched, according to a new report by Forvis Mazars, a global professional services network.

Forvis Mazars’ survey of over 300 UK C-suite executives from businesses with a turnover of at least £500 million found that AI adoption is primarily driven by short-term experimentation rather than long-term strategic planning.

While an overwhelming 97% of business leaders feel prepared for AI, almost half (47%) have experimented with AI pilot solutions, and only 34% have set clear objectives for using AI.

In addition, 53% say their AI strategy is in the early stages, and just 46% describe their AI strategy as ‘mature’. The findings suggest that, although the majority of businesses believe they are ready for AI, many have not established the critical systems and strategies needed for successful and sustainable integration.

Stronger foundations required to implement AI effectively

According to the report, many businesses are also prioritising technology over strategic planning, allowing it to dictate outcomes before a solid foundation is in place. As many as two in five (41%) business leaders admitted to diving straight into implementing operational models, rather than testing solutions first.

This rush to adopt technology often hinders businesses’ ability to build the necessary foundations for successful AI adoption. For instance, only 33% of business leaders are actively investing in data improvements, despite 49% ranking data quality as a top risk to AI adoption.

Foyaz Uddin, head of data and digital advisory at Forvis Mazars in the UK, commented: “Most businesses feel prepared for AI implementation, however, their confidence often stems from short-term wins rather than long-term planning. While it’s understandable that companies are still testing the waters, adopting AI should be a strategic business decision, not just a technological one.

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“Effective AI adoption requires a clear, top-down strategy to ensure lasting success, as well as sound governance to manage investments and risks—whether related to data, cybersecurity, ethics, or sustainability. It can also prevent companies from falling foul of the increasing legislation surrounding AI.

Companies that integrate AI into their long-term strategic business plans will be best positioned to unlock its full potential and gain a competitive edge”.