10 insights into the future of intelligent automation

AI and intelligent automation are reshaping the way organizations operate, offering a transformative opportunity for enhanced efficiency, decision-making and competitive advantage. The recently published Market Momentum Index™ for Intelligent Automation, by analyst firm Deep Analysis and commissioned by Hyland, unpacks these revolutionary trends with industry-specific insights and actionable takeaways.

We’ve summarized the top 10 insights from the report to give you a glimpse into what Deep Analysis uncovered.

For a deeper dive, download the full report, which is packed with intel sourced from decision-makers in 400 enterprises across the United States and United Kingdom, as well as analysis and recommendations.

1. Intelligent automation is gaining speed

A whopping 88% of organizations surveyed are either actively planning or preparing to start intelligent automation projects within the next 6 months. This highlights the growing urgency to adopt solutions that combine AI and automation to streamline complex processes and adapt to real-time business needs.

> Dive deeper | Watch the webinar with Alan Pelz-Sharpe, founder and principal analyst at Deep Analysis.

2. Insurance leads the way in adoption

The insurance industry is at the forefront, with 91% of surveyed insurance businesses actively involved in planning intelligent automation projects. Financial services, healthcare and government sectors aren't far behind, displaying widespread adoption across industries.

3. Data quality is a make-or-break factor

Deep Analysis found 83% of organizations have been forced to exclude at least one data source from intelligent automation projects due to poor quality, highlighting the necessity of clean and usable data for successful outcomes. Among these, CRM and ERP systems emerged as the most critical data sources.

4. AI projects are proving effective

Early adopters are seeing results, with 88% of AI projects meeting or exceeding targets. These businesses report significant progress in automating tasks and improving decision-making processes, demonstrating AI’s growing role in operational success.

5. Automation is about data, not just labor shortages

Contrary to popular beliefs, only 10% of organizations cited labor shortages as a primary reason for adopting automation. Instead, efforts are focused on improving data quality (63%) and access to knowledge/data (58%) — a clear signal that organizations are prioritizing smarter data strategies.

6. IT dominates automation efforts

Projects tend to be IT-led and IT-centered, with 75% of initiatives directed toward improving IT capabilities. However, the benefits often extend beyond IT, enhancing customer support, finance and back-office operations.

7. Businesses are rethinking their technology stack

The integration of AI is driving significant shifts in enterprise technology. For instance, 74% of organizations showed a willingness to replace traditional ERP systems with AI-enabled alternatives. This willingness marks a major shift from the historical reluctance to overhaul enterprise systems.

> Dive deeper | Watch the webinar with Alan Pelz-Sharpe, founder and principal analyst at Deep Analysis.

8. Enterprise-wide AI deployment is within reach

Survey results show that 83% of respondents have AI projects in production or evaluation phases. What’s more, many of these projects are transitioning beyond experimentation and into day-to-day operational workflows, signaling AI's maturity within enterprises.

9. Process complexity is no longer a barrier

Analysis found 77% of organizations are targeting the automation of their most complex, multistep business processes, which demonstrates growing confidence in intelligent automation’s ability to handle intricate workflows with precision.

10. Business application vendors are key partners

It’s not all in-house effort — 83% of organizations are collaborating with business application vendors for intelligent automation projects. Partnerships with trusted solution providers are enabling enterprises to execute complex automation strategies efficiently.

These insights are just the beginning. The full Deep Analysis Market Momentum Index provides actionable strategies and expert recommendations to help you capitalize on the transformative technology now available — and effective.

Understand how your peers are navigating the adoption of AI and intelligent automation, and learn how to overcome implementation challenges to make your business future-ready.