Wolters Kluwer Survey: Internal Auditors to Double AI Adoption by 2026
A new Wolters Kluwer survey indicates that internal auditors are poised to significantly increase their adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), with projections showing a doubling of AI use by 2026. Currently, 39% of internal audit functions utilize AI, and an additional 41% plan to integrate it within the next year, bringing total adoption to 80%. The primary drivers for this surge are identified as productivity gains, enhanced efficiency, and the ability to focus on higher-value strategic activities.
The Impending AI Revolution in Internal Audit
A recent survey by Wolters Kluwer highlights a significant shift in the internal audit landscape, with AI adoption projected to double by 2026. Currently, 39% of internal audit functions have integrated AI, and a substantial 41% plan to do so within the next 12 months, pushing the total adoption rate to 80%. This rapid acceleration underscores a growing recognition within the profession of AI's transformative potential. However, the survey also reveals a potential lag, with 46% of respondents indicating that AI adoption in internal audit trails other departments within their organizations, suggesting a need for internal audit to catch up.
Key Drivers and Benefits of AI Adoption
The primary motivations behind this anticipated increase in AI adoption are clear and compelling for audit professionals. The survey identifies the top advantages as:
- Productivity and Efficiency Gains: 54% of respondents expect AI to significantly enhance efficiency and productivity.
- Focus on Strategic Activities: 24% believe AI will free up auditors to concentrate on more strategic, higher-value tasks.
- Increased Accuracy and Reduced Error: 13% anticipate improved accuracy and a reduction in human error.
These benefits directly address long-standing challenges in internal audit, offering the promise of more effective and impactful assurance activities.
Enabling Factors for Successful AI Integration
To realize these benefits, the survey points to critical enablers for successful AI adoption. Training in AI skills and tools is seen as the greatest positive impact, with 45% of respondents emphasizing its importance. Furthermore, 84% consider AI skills crucial when recruiting for internal audit roles, indicating a shift in desired talent profiles. Access to dedicated AI-powered internal audit technologies (27%) and robust business-wide governance (15%) are also identified as key drivers. This suggests that internal audit functions must invest in both human capital development and appropriate technological infrastructure, supported by clear organizational policies, to effectively leverage AI.
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