AI will not replace consultants, and their demand is increasing due to the widespread use of artificial intelligence technologies

Brief overview of what is happening

Consulting has traditionally been seen as a “potential” area for replacement by artificial intelligence (AI). In practice, however, experts note the opposite: in the coming months demand for consultants who implement AI in corporations will actually increase.

Why businesses remain cautious for now

- The Wall Street Journal reports that companies fear large-scale deployment of generative AI. Successful integration will require help from specialized professionals.

- In 2023 McKinsey surveyed 2,000 companies: about two-thirds said they do not yet plan widespread AI adoption.

- Similarly, PwC surveyed 4,500 executives; more than half admitted that they currently see no tangible benefit from AI.

Who and how is supporting the transition to AI

- OpenAI and Anthropic are engaging leading consulting firms (McKinsey, BCG, Accenture, Capgemini) to promote their solutions in corporate environments. Consultant representatives work alongside OpenAI engineers on implementing AI tools.

- Anthropic has already partnered with Deloitte and collaborates with other consulting companies.

Example of the Frontier platform

OpenAI introduced “Frontier” – a tool for creating AI agents that accelerate employee work. A team of about 70 engineers closely collaborates with consultants. One large European bank uses Frontier in eight projects: voice recognition, credit risk assessment, and more. Consultants help speed up implementation and demonstrate results to the client faster.

Growth in demand for consulting services

- At Accenture, the value of AI project contracts rose from $1.8 billion to $2.2 billion in the last quarter.

- Clients are willing to pay not for the “number” of specialists but for real impact from AI implementation.

Corporate governance issue

Many owners and leaders want clear accountability if an AI initiative fails. Full automation of consulting functions removes their ability to assign a “culprit.” Therefore, according to market participants, the traditional consulting services market is unlikely to disappear entirely, but its role and structure will probably change.