AI adoption in the modern era of combined workforces is detailed in new research, showcasing the strategies employed by global businesses to fully integrate artificial intelligence.
In today's rapidly changing world, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and flexible workforces is becoming a cornerstone for business success. According to a recent study by Guidant Global and Raconteur, over half (53%) of business leaders view AI as critical to their future success.
The research, which can be found here, reveals that 90% of companies plan to increase their use of specialist contractors within the next 18 months. This shift towards a blended workforce, comprising internal, contingent, and external talent, is essential for plugging skills gaps, driving innovation, and building resilience in a rapidly shifting global landscape.
Leaders in workforce strategy are more likely to have formalized processes in place for skills mapping (52%), resource planning (43%), and departmental hiring (40%). In response, 58% of organizations are adapting their budget allocation processes to determine the most appropriate worker types for various roles.
The growing need for specialist skills, rising competition for talent, and accelerating digital transformation are driving forces behind this shift. More than half of employers surveyed identified technical skills gaps as a major challenge, especially in areas like cybersecurity and AI.
To address these gaps, organizations are increasingly turning to blended workforces. The strategic benefits of this approach are manifold. Organizations gain targeted expertise by combining permanent employees with specialist contractors, increasing workforce agility and capability.
The blended workforce model, which integrates AI-powered teams alongside human talent and contractors, offers a compounding impact by enhancing business efficiency and innovation. AI supports processes and analysis, freeing specialist contractors to focus on high-value tasks.
Guidant Global emphasizes a customized, client-centric approach to workforce solutions. Their blended workforce strategies are tailored to address each company’s unique challenges, particularly in STEM disciplines where mission-critical expertise is essential.
The integration of flexible talent with AI expertise into operations addresses urgent skills gaps and future-proofs teams. Flexible talent is not just filling gaps, they are passing on vital knowledge, helping organizations maintain agility, scalability, and competitive resilience.
Claire Marsh, Chief Executive Officer at Impellam Group North America, stated that traditional permanent workforces can no longer keep up with fast-changing market demands and evolving business needs due to the rise of AI and digital transformation. Using external talent has helped 75% of companies address skills shortages, while also bringing niche expertise that enhances team capabilities.
Simon Blockley, Chief Executive Officer at Impellam UK and Europe, stated that blending flexible and permanent talent, supported by robust strategy and a forward-thinking mindset, is the key to unlocking value, driving innovation, and staying competitive in the AI era.
The findings from the Guidant Global and Raconteur research echo conversations about the clear divide between businesses prepared with agile, blended workforces and those risking falling behind due to skills gaps and outdated workforce models. The message is that organizations that act now to build flexible, tech-ready teams will be best positioned to navigate complexity, drive innovation, and stay competitive in a rapidly changing world.
75% of businesses anticipate the blending of internal and external teams within the next one to two years. Nearly half (49%) of employers report an improved work-life balance among employees due to blended workforce models, while 35% note enhanced overall well-being.
In conclusion, the shift towards flexible, technology-augmented workforces is key to competitive advantage in modern businesses. This strategic approach supports efficiency, innovation, and access to critical skills that companies need without long-term hiring commitments.
In light of the growing need for specialized skills and the accelerating digital transformation, over two-thirds (75%) of organizations are adapting their budget allocation processes to incorporate AI-powered teams, specifically contractors, for various roles (58%). Moreover, leaders in workforce strategy are implementing AI by integrating it with their human talent and contractors to boost efficiency and innovation in their businesses.
