UK project-based organisations are entering a new phase of the Project Economy. After years of digital investment, the focus is shifting from AI experimentation to measurable business outcomes.
New research from Deltek, from its 7th Annual Clarity Trends and Insights for Architecture, Engineering and Consulting Firms report, shows that AI is now being embedded across the project lifecycle. This marks a transition from early adoption to operational impact and performance improvement.
From Experimentation to Execution
The research highlights a clear shift in priorities. Nearly one third (29%) of UK firms now see operationalising and optimising AI as a strategic priority.
AI is no longer confined to pilot projects. It is being integrated into core functions such as forecasting, planning, reporting, and resource management.
Early results are already visible. Nearly half of organisations report productivity or cost improvements. A growing group, 12%, is achieving measurable return on investment.
Digital Maturity Enters a New Phase
More than half (55%) of UK organisations now describe themselves as advanced or mature in their digital transformation journeys.
However, fewer firms identify as “advanced” compared to last year. This reflects a shift in expectations, not a slowdown. As integration becomes more important, organisations are reassessing what maturity really means.
Digital transformation is now embedded in daily operations. Integration between business and IT systems is becoming standard practice.
Financial Control and Visibility Remain Core
As projects grow more complex, financial discipline remains essential. Organisations are focusing on visibility, cost control, and performance tracking.
Confidence levels are high. Around 85% of firms report strong visibility into project profitability. Many also track utilisation and overhead metrics effectively.
AI is expected to be a key driver of profitability in 2026. At the same time, cost control continues to play a critical role.
Skills and Adoption Challenges
Despite progress, adoption remains a challenge. Many organisations still struggle to scale AI effectively.
AI literacy is now the most in-demand skill for the next three years. This reflects the need to align technology with workforce capabilities.
Neil Davidson, Group Vice President at Deltek, said:
“Architecture, engineering, and consulting firms are at a genuine inflection point. After years of steady growth and significant investment in digital foundations, the industry is now asking a harder question: how do we convert that investment into measurable productivity gains?
What we’re seeing now is a shift from experimentation to real results as AI becomes embedded into core business workflows. Many organisations are already seeing measurable ROI from AI investments.”
Industry Implications
The findings highlight a defining moment in the Project Economy. Organisations are moving from digital transformation as a concept to execution as a priority.
AI is becoming part of everyday project delivery. The focus is now on consistency, integration, and measurable outcomes.
For project-based businesses, the next phase will be defined by results. The ability to translate AI investment into performance gains will set the pace for the market.
ERP News Editorial Team
The ERPNews Editorial Team covers global developments in ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), enterprise software, cloud platforms, AI, automation, and digital transformation, providing independent news and editorial analysis for senior business and technology leaders. Our reporting focuses on market signals, strategic shifts, and enterprise impact across the ERP and enterprise technology ecosystem.
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