McKinsey on the state of AI in 2025
How organisations are experimenting widely but still struggle to scale AI for measurable business results
Nearly nine out of ten organisations report using artificial intelligence (AI) in at least one business function, but most remain in early stages of scaling and only a small share are enjoying enterprise-level financial impact.
Key takeaways:
- High adoption in functions, low scaling enterprise-wide: 88% of respondents say their organisation uses AI in at least one function, yet only about one-third say they are scaling AI across the enterprise.
- Growing experimentation with AI agents: 62% of respondents report at least experimenting with AI agents, and 23% say they are scaling them in one or more functions.
- Strong use-case benefits, but limited EBIT impact: Many report cost or revenue benefits at the use-case level, but only 39% say AI has impacted enterprise-wide EBIT.
- Growth-oriented objectives drive value: Organisations seeing the most value from AI are those setting growth and innovation—not just efficiency—as key objectives.
- Workflow redesign and leadership matter: High performers emphasise redesigning workflows, have senior leadership commitment, and use robust operating models to scale AI.
- Risk-management practices are increasing: More organisations are actively mitigating risks such as inaccuracy, explainability and regulatory compliance as AI usage intensifies.
Get the full report at McKinsey