In 2025, agentic artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as the dominant force in business applications, operating autonomously with minimal human intervention. This new generation of AI has not only eclipsed its predecessors, including classical and generative AI, but has also begun to redefine operational frameworks across various sectors. Companies are increasingly leveraging this technology to enhance efficiency in areas like global supply chain management and to empower their workforce, a shift that has elevated the role of Chief Information Officers (CIOs) to new strategic heights.
As major players like Oracle, SAP, and Salesforce continue to adapt their offerings, the influence of agentic AI on corporate structures is becoming more pronounced. With CIOs finding themselves more aligned with executive management—often collaborating more closely with CEOs than their peers in other C-suite roles—this trend is reshaping how technology is perceived within organizations. Insights from these executives are now more critical than ever, particularly as the landscape of AI continues to evolve.
One area where agentic AI is making a significant impact is in enterprise resource planning (ERP). The technology is driving an evolution rather than a demise of ERP systems, which have historically shown resilience against disruptive changes. Despite predictions that newer technologies would render traditional ERP solutions obsolete, incumbents have adapted and found ways to integrate AI, thus adding automation capabilities to streamline cumbersome tasks.
As global trade faces unprecedented challenges—from the COVID-19 pandemic to geopolitical tensions—companies are increasingly turning to AI to enhance supply chain resilience. Emile Naus, a partner at BearingPoint, reflected on the fragility of supply chains exacerbated by nationalistic policies and crises, suggesting that reliance on distant suppliers has reached a tipping point. Meanwhile, Richard Howells of SAP emphasized the role of AI in mitigating supply chain disruptions, calling it a “game-changer” for businesses.
In a strategic move, global chemical giant BASF announced its transition to an S/4Hana private cloud as part of a broader modernization initiative. This evolution is designed to streamline operations and reduce the complexities associated with on-premise management, with a focus on integrating AI capabilities to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
At its recent developer conference, Salesforce unveiled its Agentforce technology, which aims to deliver a comprehensive AI ecosystem rather than focusing solely on large language models. Chief Ethical and Humane Use Officer Paula Goldman argued for a more holistic view, asserting that Agentforce encompasses a foundation model alongside smaller models and automated workflows, thereby enhancing data and application synergy.
Oracle unveiled its AI Agent Studio at the OracleCloud World Tour in London, positioning it as a catalyst for business process automation. Executive VP Steve Miranda highlighted the platform’s capability to orchestrate teams of AI agents across various business applications, reflecting a broader industry trend towards integrated AI solutions.
ServiceNow, at its Knowledge 25 conference, underscored the necessity of AI for organizational survival, with CEO Bill McDermott declaring it a “gateway to prosperity.” The company is embedding agentic AI into its services platform, reinforcing its commitment to harnessing this technology for enhanced customer relationship management.
A recent survey commissioned by Salesforce revealed a remarkable increase in the adoption of agentic AI among CIOs, with implementation rates jumping by 282% from 2024 to 2025. The study found that 96% of CIOs either currently use or plan to incorporate agentic AI within the next two years, indicating a substantial increase in both confidence and budget allocations for AI initiatives. The survey also noted that CIOs are expanding their skillsets, with many focusing on narrative-building to better communicate the value of AI within their organizations.
While generative AI continues to present challenges—particularly in creative industries—many organizations are discovering ways to leverage it for innovation. Amidst concerns over copyright and creative exploitation, some creators are using AI tools to enhance their work and explore new avenues for expression. However, the technology’s reliability remains a concern, as a BBC study revealed that a significant portion of AI-generated content contained errors.
In a practical application of AI, Acclaim Autism improved its insurance approval process through the integration of AI-driven software, resulting in a 95% acceptance rate for applications. This change increased employee “task discretion,” illustrating how technology can empower workers, even as broader trends indicate a decline in autonomy in many sectors.
Monty Barlow, CEO of Capgemini’s Cambridge Consultants, discussed the need for technology firms to remain adaptable and responsive to emerging trends. With a history of integrating academic insights into industry practices, Barlow emphasized the importance of foresight in identifying technological waves, particularly in the realm of AI.
As agentic AI continues to gain traction, its implications for business operations and workforce dynamics are profound. The technology not only promises enhanced efficiency and strategic alignment but also raises critical conversations about its ethical use and the future of work in an increasingly automated landscape.
See also
Rideflux Secures $13.9M Pre-IPO Funding to Propel Autonomous Truck Commercialization
Enterprise AI Licenses Shift to Flat-Fee Models, Paving Way for Predictable Pricing in 2026
India’s NITI Aayog Launches LIPI to Break Language Barriers for 90% of Innovators
Write3BooksIn24Hours Launches TrilogyForge to Create Novels in Under 24 Hours
Bank of America Warns of Wage Concerns Amid AI Spending Surge
