AI adoption surges to 72% among professionals

AI usage in the workplace has reached new heights, with a surge in adoption across industries like accounting, consulting, finance, and legal, according to Intapp’s 2025 Technology Perceptions Survey.

The survey, which gathered data from over 800 fee earners across the U.S. and U.K., reveals that the use of AI tools has become widespread, with professionals citing increased productivity, creativity, and growth as the primary benefits.

Widespread Shift in AI Adoption

The survey highlights a dramatic rise in AI usage in just one year. In 2024, 48% of professionals reported using AI tools at work.

This figure has now jumped to 72%, reflecting a growing recognition of the technology’s potential to streamline operations.

“AI is becoming an essential part of the workflow for professionals, driving top-line and bottom-line growth within their firms as a result,” said Robin Tech, Vice President of AI and Data at Intapp.

He further emphasized that AI’s widespread adoption is no longer a trend but a standard practice in today’s professional environment.

Additionally, 56% of firms have adopted AI in some capacity, and another 32% are in the early stages of their AI journey. This sets the stage for nearly 88% of firms to integrate AI tools in the near future.

Unauthorized Use of AI Raises Concerns

While professionals are embracing AI, a significant portion is bypassing corporate protocols to use AI tools independently.

The survey reveals that 50% of professionals have used AI tools not authorized by their firm, and another 23% are willing to do so.

This trend raises concerns about the security risks associated with unauthorized AI usage, particularly regarding sensitive client data.

“Unauthorized AI usage creates new attack vectors threatening data security,” warned Tech. As AI becomes more embedded in professional workflows, firms must balance innovation with robust security measures to mitigate risks.

AI Enhances Productivity and Creativity

AI’s value in the workplace isn’t just in automation — it’s also empowering professionals to think creatively and work more efficiently. According to the survey:

• 62% of respondents found AI highly useful in their work.
• 82% believed the quality of AI-generated work is at least as good as their own.
• 41% said AI helped them synthesize large amounts of information, and 38% credited AI with helping them generate creative solutions.

As AI becomes more ingrained in daily tasks, professionals report not just increased efficiency but a shift toward higher-level and more strategic work.

Reallocating Time for Growth

Professionals are reallocating the time saved by AI to focus on more value-added tasks, driving growth within their firms:

• 42% have reallocated time saved to focus on higher-level client work.
• 28% have strengthened client relationships, while 25% have focused on expanding their professional networks.
• 23% have reallocated time to pursue new business opportunities, while 24% have increased billable hours.

As firms leverage AI, it is clear that the tool is helping them not only become more efficient but also capitalize on new opportunities for revenue and client engagement.

The Future of AI in the Workplace

AI’s influence on the workplace is undeniable, and its adoption shows no signs of slowing down. Professionals who have embraced AI are seeing tangible improvements in both their productivity and creativity. However, the rise of unauthorized AI usage signals a need for firms to develop clear policies and safeguards to ensure AI’s secure and effective integration.

With the continued growth of AI, companies that effectively balance innovation with security are poised to lead in an increasingly digital-driven professional landscape.

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