Marvin OnumonuSix in 10 (60%) businesses said their employees had not completed comprehensive artificial intelligence (AI) training, according to research from SAP.
The study, carried out with Oxford Economics, found that AI investment was set to rise by 40% over the next two years, but many staff lacked the skills, confidence and guidance to use it responsibly.
The research found a gap in training, with 68% of organisations reporting staff used unapproved AI tools at least occasionally in their day-to-day work.
Seven in 10 businesses had started reskilling or upskilling staff, but progress lagged behind adoption of AI.
Katie King, published author and CEO of AI in Business, said: “Shadow AI isn’t a sign of resistance, but a sign of enthusiasm.
“Employees are hungry to use these tools, but this eagerness is seeing some move faster than their organisations can support them.
“This energy is a huge opportunity for UK businesses, if it’s guided in the right way.”
King added: “The answer isn’t to damper this enthusiasm and the solution is reasonably simple.
“Give people access to approved tools, clear guardrails, and role-specific training.
“When staff understand how to use AI responsibly, it becomes a source of innovation and confidence rather than risk.”
Jon Curtis, financial systems manager at Aspen Pumps, said: “AI has become a part of our every working day, and it has to be used responsibly.
“We built a generative AI tool that sorts through hundreds of emails each day, from warranty claims to price enquiries, and flags what needs a human response.
“It’s saving huge amounts of time while keeping customers happy.”
Curtis added: “But we’re also clear with our teams about using the right tools and keeping data secure.
“We train people to use approved corporate systems, so they get the benefits of AI safely and confidently.”
Additionally, the research found AI was moving out of the trial phase and becoming a tool for growth and resilience.
Leaders said AI could deliver returns faster than other technology, but only 7% of organisations had adopted an enterprise-wide AI strategy.
The report stated that without a long-term strategy covering data, people, governance and partners, businesses risked missing out on the full value of AI.
Leila Romane, managing director at SAP UK&I, said: “AI is fast becoming a key driver of growth for UK businesses.
“When organisations make the technology part of their long-term strategy, they can innovate faster, scale with confidence and compete globally.
“It’s essential to get data foundations right, while giving employees the training, tools and space to experiment safely.”
Romane added: “That’s how businesses create a culture of responsible AI adoption from day one.
“The UK already has the talent, research and entrepreneurial spirit needed to lead in AI.
“The question now is whether businesses will take a strategic approach and turn this potential into future growth.”
