Experts warn UK firms want to keep spending on AI - even without clear ROI (www.techradar.com)

A recent KPMG report reveals that UK firms are maintaining or increasing their investments in AI technology despite facing challenges in demonstrating clear return on investment (ROI). While traditional profitability metrics are being deprioritized, with 64% of companies shifting focus to non-financial outcomes like productivity gains (76%), quality of work (71%), and improved decision-making (67%), many organizations struggle to quantify these strategic benefits. Only 14% of executives report confidence in measuring these indirect returns, highlighting a significant gap in existing ROI frameworks that fail to align well with AI outcomes. This trend underscores a broader recognition of AI as a transformative, long-term strategic investment rather than a short-term financial driver, prompting firms to prioritize workforce upskilling and role redefinition. Almost half of the surveyed companies are redesigning job roles to integrate AI technologies, while over 60% are actively investing in staff training. Nevertheless, a notable 46% cite skill shortages as a critical barrier. As AI becomes an essential part of organizational strategy, leaders must focus not just on technology adoption but also on providing adequate support and training for their workforce to navigate the changes ahead.