UiPath report reveals 90% of automation pros adopting AI

UiPath has unveiled its annual State of the Automation Professional Report, highlighting how professionals within the automation industry are progressively integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their workflows. This year's report draws upon a global survey of 1,909 automation professionals and students, encapsulating a significant trend towards AI integration as part of automation practices in 2024.

The survey reveals that 90% of automation professionals are either currently using AI or planning to do so within the forthcoming year. Increased productivity has emerged as the primary driver behind this trend, cited by 66% of respondents. The report highlights how professionals utilize AI for various tasks, including writing code (67%), creating documentation (57%), and testing (47%).

The report also conveys a broader perspective on workforce dynamics within the industry. A notable 61% of the respondents indicated that their companies have expanded their software automation teams in the last 12 months. Additionally, 81% expect their organisations to hire more automation professionals in the coming year. Training has become crucial as companies strive to ensure their staff are well-versed in the latest automation tools.

Key findings from the report suggest an overall positive sentiment among automation professionals. Approximately 70% of respondents believe they will continue in the industry over the next five years. Furthermore, 86% feel that their current roles will provide valuable experience for future career prospects. Confidence in the industry's growth is high, with 84% of professionals anticipating continued expansion in the software automation sector, and 80% believing their roles will become increasingly significant within their organisations over the next year.

There is also an indication that automation maturity within organisations is advancing. This year, 60% of respondents reported that their organisations have been utilising software automation for over five years, compared to 47% last year. Automation initiatives are most prevalent in departments such as accounting and finance (67%), IT (53%), and operations (51%). AI is becoming an intrinsic part of these processes, with 81% of professionals reporting daily or weekly use of AI products in their automation projects. Only 19% find it challenging to incorporate AI into their automation tasks.

Agi Garaba, Chief People Officer at UiPath, commented on the findings, stating, "In the past year, the data from our survey shows progress with technological discovery and preparation for AI and automation. Automation professionals are benefiting greatly from taking a leap forward with specialised AI and GenAI integrations in their automation projects, with even more capable agentic AI workflows on the horizon." She added, "The combination of business automation and AI holds incredible potential to transform organisations, increasing productivity while empowering these critical professionals to take their careers to the next level."

The research, conducted in May and June 2024, gathered insights from respondents across various regions, mainly through channels owned by UiPath. The comprehensive findings are accessible through the full report, providing in-depth details on the current state and anticipated future of automation in the workplace.