A new report from TeamViewer, The AI Opportunity Report, reveals a strong belief among UK business leaders that artificial intelligence (AI) could help drive the biggest productivity boom in a century.
The report, which surveyed IT, OT, and business decision-makers globally, found that 74 percent of UK decision-makers see AI as a means to reverse recent productivity declines, while 77 percent believe AI has already enabled them to acquire new skills they otherwise wouldn’t have learned.
Constanze Backhaus, TeamViewer’s CHRO, said, “AI offers immense potential for fostering equal opportunities in the workplace by supporting employees in overcoming challenges and streamlining tasks at all levels. Beyond just enhancing productivity, these tools enable more seamless collaboration across departments and roles, ensuring that every individual, from desk workers to frontline staff, can contribute effectively to the organisation’s success.”
This perspective is mirrored by 68 percent of UK respondents who recognise AI’s ability to create fairer opportunities for parents, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions.
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AI Adoption Driving Skill Development and Accessibility
According to TeamViewer’s findings, AI is empowering employees across the UK, with 76 percent of UK decision-makers reporting that it allows them to focus on higher-level strategic work. The same proportion views AI as a critical factor for career progression. AI is equipping professionals with skills that might have previously been out of reach, creating new avenues for development and advancement within companies.
AI also plays a growing role in improving workplace accessibility. Globally, 74 percent of respondents with disabilities or chronic illnesses believe AI can enhance accessibility. Additionally, 68 percent of UK-based parents and caregivers agree that AI could help foster equal job opportunities by accommodating flexible working arrangements.
Significant Time Savings and Revenue Potential
TeamViewer’s report finds that time savings are an immediate benefit of AI adoption, particularly among IT professionals. These professionals are currently saving an average of 16 hours monthly due to AI solutions, a notable efficiency gain that outpaces the six hours saved by public sector employees, who show slower AI adoption rates. TeamViewer’s report indicates that these time savings will likely increase as AI continues to become more ingrained in the workplace.
The revenue potential of AI is another area of significant interest to UK business leaders. Sixty-nine percent of UK decision-makers believe AI will positively impact revenue in the coming year, with C-level executives forecasting an average revenue increase of 270 percent due to AI integration. Nearly half of UK respondents (47 percent) trust AI for future business forecasting, a figure that rises to 70 percent among C-level executives. Notably, 32 percent of UK decision-makers, along with 61 percent of executives, express confidence in AI’s capacity to make business decisions autonomously.
Security Measures, Training, and Practical Applications
The report highlights a cautious but optimistic approach to AI adoption, with many leaders recognising the need for security and ongoing training. Sixty-nine percent of UK respondents report using AI with security measures in place to manage risks. Additionally, 94 percent agree that enhanced training is essential to address potential AI-related risks, and 81 percent anticipate more comprehensive training within the next 6-12 months.
Confidence in AI capabilities is strong among UK decision-makers, with two-thirds willing to place bets on their organisation’s ability to handle AI risks effectively, and 48 percent of executives prepared to wager a week’s or month’s pay. There is also a desire for AI applications that go beyond the hype, with 68 percent of UK respondents agreeing that the hype cycle has ended, and companies are now seeking practical AI solutions that yield tangible outcomes.
