In fact, I was more interested in data like this.
Recent data reveals a notable decline in the use of artificial intelligence at large companies, marking the largest drop since surveys began in 2023. According to the United States Census Bureau, AI adoption among firms with over 250 employees fell from nearly 14 percent in June to under 12 percent in August, while smaller businesses saw slight increases in usage. This decline raises concerns for investors and executives who have heavily invested in AI technologies, believing they would transform business operations. However, reports indicate that 95 percent of U.S. companies utilizing AI have not generated new revenue from these technologies. As companies reassess their reliance on AI, many are beginning to rehire human workers, acknowledging that the technology has not lived up to earlier expectations.
According to Gartner, all work in information technology departments will involve artificial intelligence by the year 2030. Currently, 81 percent of IT tasks are performed exclusively by humans, but Gartner predicts that in five years, 75 percent of IT work will be enhanced by AI, with the remaining tasks handled by automated systems. Analyst Daryl Plummer stated that while the shift to AI will provide IT departments with greater labor capacity, organizations must demonstrate their value to retain this capacity. He emphasized that businesses may face challenges in effectively implementing AI due to rising operational costs and the necessity for continuous exploration of use cases. Plummer also noted that 65 percent of Chief Information Officers are not seeing a return on their AI investments.
And, A recent report indicates that employees skilled in artificial intelligence are less likely to face layoffs as companies adapt to AI-driven changes. According to a General Assembly survey, 54 percent of technology hiring managers anticipate layoffs within the next year, but more than three-quarters believe that affected employees can be successfully upskilled or reskilled. The report highlights a shifting workforce, with demand rising in certain areas while declining in others, emphasizing the need for organizations to align AI adoption with employee training and development.
Why do we care?
Here’s the reality check—AI adoption at big companies is falling. Down from 14% to under 12%, and 95% of users aren’t seeing new revenue. Translation? The hype isn’t paying the bills. Some firms are even rehiring humans after betting too hard on AI.
Gartner’s out there saying by 2030, all IT work will touch AI. Maybe. But right now, 65% of CIOs aren’t seeing a return. That gap is the problem.
And in the workforce? If you’ve got AI skills, you’re safer from layoffs. That’s the one solid takeaway—upskilling matters. For MSPs, the play isn’t selling AI dreams—it’s proving where it saves money, boosts productivity, or helps customers compete. Otherwise, you’re just pushing hype while clients cut back.