The main reason for me to think and comment on the new trend.
Let’s cut to the chase: artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic buzzword it’s the backbone of modern business operations. Companies large and small are racing to embed AI in everything from customer support to financial forecasting. In consulting and IT, keeping pace isn’t optional anymore; it’s the price of admission.
From my own experience advising companies across the board, I’ve watched as AI has gone from a “nice to have” to a critical component of staying competitive. Automation is the first wave most businesses ride think invoice processing, basic compliance checks, and customer service bots. These tools cut down on errors, speed up delivery, and let human teams shift their focus to higher-value work. It’s not just about shaving costs it’s about unlocking potential that was stuck behind repetitive tasks.
But the real power play? Predictive analytics. Machine learning is letting firms anticipate customer needs, adapt to market changes, and spot risks before they snowball. That’s a huge leap from the old days of reacting after the fact. As consultants, this means our role is evolving from putting out fires to helping clients build fireproof strategies. Our recommendations aren’t just based on gut feeling anymore; they’re grounded in data, which clients expect.
Still, this transformation isn’t all smooth sailing. Plenty of organizations are tangled up in legacy systems that don’t mesh well with AI solutions. The skills gap is another headache many teams simply aren’t equipped to manage or even understand these new tools. So, consultants have to wear a few hats: tech guide, change manager, sometimes even coach, making sure the transition sticks and delivers real results.
And there’s no ignoring the compliance and ethics piece. AI’s reach means more data, and more data means bigger responsibilities. Regulatory frameworks like GDPR aren’t going away, and any slip-up can be costly. It’s our job to help clients navigate this maze, building in privacy and ethics from day one not as an afterthought.
What’s truly challenging and exciting is the speed of change. New AI platforms and tools pop up constantly. That means consulting firms can’t afford to get complacent. We need to foster a culture of continuous learning, agility, and real partnership with our clients. The old playbooks are out; adaptability is everything.
Bottom line: AI is both a disruptor and a catalyst for growth in consulting and IT services. The firms that will come out ahead are those that combine technical expertise with strategic vision and a strong sense of responsibility. In this landscape, success belongs to those who invest in people, stay nimble, and never lose sight of the human element behind every solution.
Clayton Brad Marcar
COO | Correlation Business Advisory
