UK businesses, alongside their global counterparts, are rapidly integrating artificial intelligence into their operations, but a significant gap exists between the speed of AI deployment and the implementation of robust governance frameworks. New research from Smarsh, a leader in communications data and intelligence, indicates that this disparity is creating considerable compliance, security, and operational risks for organisations.
The 2026 Enterprise AI Trends Study, conducted by FTI Consulting, found that 55% of enterprises are actively deploying AI. However, a stark contrast emerges when examining governance, with only 26% of these organisations reporting that their governance frameworks are fully aligned with the pace of AI adoption. Furthermore, the study highlights a critical blind spot: just 30% of enterprises possess comprehensive capabilities to detect and manage 'shadow AI' – the use of unauthorised AI tools outside approved workflows.
Goutam Nadella, Chief Strategy Officer at Smarsh, commented on the evolving role of data, stating, “For decades, communications data was viewed primarily as something organisations needed to preserve for regulatory purposes. That era is ending. As AI becomes operational across the enterprise, organisations that can govern, protect, and activate their communications data will be best positioned to innovate responsibly, manage risk proactively, and unlock new business value.” The research underscores that AI readiness is no longer solely a technological challenge but fundamentally a data governance issue.
The study identifies five key trends reshaping enterprise AI readiness. These include AI adoption outpacing governance, with shadow AI creating new enterprise blind spots; communications data becoming a competitive advantage; enterprise risk spanning interconnected systems; security and compliance becoming proactive; and compliance evolving into a strategic business function. The findings suggest a shift in how organisations must approach data, moving beyond mere compliance to leveraging it as a strategic asset for AI, investigations, and business intelligence.
Despite the challenges, enterprises recognise the need to strengthen their AI foundations. The study shows that 62% are investing in AI and machine learning capabilities, 53% in data quality and enrichment, and 51% are modernising their archives. James Condon, Managing Director, Americas Head of Insights, FTI Consulting Strategic Communications, emphasised the importance of closing gaps in visibility, integration, data quality, and oversight for enterprises to scale AI with confidence.