According to OpenText’s third annual Global Managed Security Survey, 92% of managed service providers are experiencing growth driven by interest in artificial intelligence, with 96% expecting this trend to continue into the year. However, only about half of these providers feel prepared to assist small and mid-sized businesses in adopting AI tools, a significant decline from 90% the previous year. The survey, which included over 1,000 respondents, highlights a growing readiness gap among providers as they struggle to meet customer expectations. Michael DePalma, Vice President of Business Development at OpenText Cybersecurity, noted that providers are under pressure to match the pace of AI adoption, emphasizing the need for integrated, scalable security solutions to address this challenge.
Gartner analysts emphasize that organizations can leverage Shadow AI as both a challenge and an opportunity for innovation while maintaining security. During the Gartner Security and Risk Management Summit 2025, Christine Lee and Leigh McMullen highlighted the need for security leaders to embrace artificial intelligence to engage board-level executives and improve employee morale. A recent survey from Gartner indicated that 53% of respondents are currently developing custom AI tools, yet only 23% have implemented runtime controls for these technologies, underscoring the urgency for enhanced security measures as AI adoption accelerates.
Why do we care?
MSPs say AI is driving growth—92% are seeing it. But only half think they’re actually ready to help customers adopt it. That’s down from 90% last year. That’s not progress, that’s backsliding, and probably overconfident to begin with. And Gartner’s saying the same thing—53% of companies are cooking up custom AI tools, but barely a quarter have controls in place. Translation? Your customers are already in the Wild West of AI, and you’re not riding shotgun. This isn’t about becoming an AI company—it’s about putting some guardrails up before your clients get themselves into trouble. If you’re not building AI governance and security into your offerings, someone else will.