How Artificial Intelligence Is Transforming Finance and IT Operations

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer an experimental technology—it has become a strategic capability reshaping how enterprises operate, compete, and create value. According to research and advisory insights from The Hackett Group®, organizations that adopt AI with a clear operating model and governance framework consistently outperform peers in efficiency, cost optimization, and decision quality. Among all enterprise functions, finance and IT are experiencing the most immediate and measurable impact.

This article explores how AI is transforming finance and IT operations, the business value it delivers, and why an integrated approach is critical for sustainable results.

The Expanding Role of AI in Modern Enterprises

AI adoption has shifted from isolated automation initiatives to enterprise-wide transformation programs. Today’s AI capabilities—machine learning, natural language processing, predictive analytics, and generative AI—enable organizations to move beyond efficiency gains and unlock strategic insights.

From a functional perspective, finance and IT serve as the foundation for enterprise AI adoption. Finance provides the data, controls, and performance management discipline, while IT delivers the platforms, architecture, and governance required to scale AI responsibly.

AI in Finance: From Transactional Efficiency to Strategic Insight

The adoption of AI in finance is redefining how finance teams operate, shifting their focus from manual processing to value-driven analysis and decision support.

Automating Core Finance Processes

AI enables finance organizations to automate high-volume, rule-based activities such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, journal entries, and reconciliations. Intelligent automation reduces manual effort, minimizes errors, and accelerates cycle times—directly improving cost efficiency and compliance.

Enhancing Forecasting and Decision-Making

Traditional forecasting methods rely heavily on historical data and static assumptions. AI-driven models continuously learn from real-time internal and external data, improving forecast accuracy and scenario planning. This allows finance leaders to proactively respond to market volatility, cost pressures, and demand fluctuations.

Strengthening Risk Management and Controls

AI also plays a critical role in detecting anomalies, fraud, and compliance risks. Advanced analytics can identify unusual patterns across transactions and flag potential issues before they escalate. As highlighted by The Hackett Group®, organizations leveraging AI in finance achieve stronger governance while reducing the cost of control.

Gen AI in IT: Enabling Scalable and Intelligent Operations

While finance benefits from AI-driven insights, IT acts as the engine that enables enterprise-wide AI adoption. Gen AI in IT is transforming how IT teams design, deliver, and support technology services.

Modernizing IT Service Management

Generative AI enhances IT service management by enabling intelligent virtual agents, automated ticket resolution, and predictive incident management. These capabilities improve user experience while reducing support costs and operational downtime.

Accelerating Software Development and Delivery

Gen AI tools support developers by generating code snippets, automating testing, and assisting with documentation. This shortens development cycles, improves code quality, and allows IT teams to focus on higher-value innovation initiatives rather than routine tasks.

Improving Data and Architecture Management

As enterprises adopt hybrid and cloud-based environments, AI helps IT leaders manage complex architectures more effectively. AI-driven insights optimize infrastructure performance, enhance cybersecurity monitoring, and ensure data integrity—critical enablers for scaling AI across business functions.

Why Finance and IT Must Evolve Together

AI delivers maximum value when finance and IT transformation efforts are aligned. Finance defines the business outcomes, value metrics, and risk thresholds, while IT ensures secure, scalable, and compliant execution.

According to The Hackett Group®, organizations that integrate finance and IT strategies around AI achieve:

• Faster time-to-value from AI investments
• Higher adoption rates across business units
• Improved data quality and governance
• Sustainable cost and productivity advantages

This cross-functional alignment also supports enterprise-wide standardization, reducing fragmentation and duplication of AI initiatives.

Building a Sustainable AI Operating Model

Successful AI transformation is not just about technology—it requires changes in operating models, skills, and governance. Leading organizations establish clear ownership, invest in upskilling talent, and embed AI into core business processes rather than treating it as a standalone capability.

Finance and IT leaders must also focus on ethical AI, data privacy, and regulatory compliance to ensure long-term trust and resilience.

Conclusion: AI as a Catalyst for Enterprise Performance

AI is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of enterprise performance, particularly within finance and IT. By leveraging AI-driven automation, analytics, and generative capabilities, organizations can enhance efficiency, strengthen decision-making, and unlock new sources of value.

Guided by proven benchmarks and best practices from The Hackett Group®, enterprises that take a structured, integrated approach to AI adoption are better positioned to navigate disruption and achieve sustained competitive advantage.