SAP SE has released new research highlighting the increasing influence of generative AI on executive decision-making. According to the "AI Has a Seat in the C-Suite" survey, 44 percent of C-suite executives would override their planned decisions based on AI insights, while 38 percent would trust AI to make business decisions on their behalf. The survey, conducted by Wakefield Research and sponsored by SAP, included responses from 300 executives at U.S. companies with annual revenues of at least $1 billion. Additional findings show that 55 percent of executives work at firms where AI-driven insights frequently replace traditional decision-making processes. Furthermore, 48 percent of executives use generative AI tools daily, with 15 percent engaging with these tools multiple times per day.
The research indicates that 52 percent of executives trust AI primarily to analyze data and provide recommendations, 48 percent identify hidden risks, and suggest 47 percent alternative strategies. Beyond business applications, AI is also contributing to improved work-life balance and better mental well-being among executives. Jared Coyle, SAP North America’s Chief AI Officer, said, “Most executive decisions are based on a combination of the data, how they feel, and discussions they’ve had with people they trust. What this data tells us is that AI is part of that trusted inner circle.” He highlighted SAP’s Business Data Cloud as a solution to integrate and harmonize data across business functions, supporting more reliable AI decision-making.
