Standard ROI frameworks assess four dimensions: cost reduction, revenue uplift, faster time to market, and strategic optionality.
In 2026, the evidence base for AI ROI has matured considerably. Organisations with strong AI deployments report an average 3.7 times return per dollar invested, with top performers achieving over ten times returns.
The most reliable gains are in document drafting, software engineering and customer correspondence.
Standard ROI frameworks assess four dimensions: cost reduction, revenue uplift, faster time to market, and strategic optionality.
In 2026, the evidence base for AI ROI has matured considerably. Returns are highly skewed. A small group of leaders captures disproportionate value, while many organisations report modest or unmeasurable returns. The best predictors are governance maturity, use case specificity and workflow redesign (Harvard Business Review, 2026). Australian evidence remains limited.
The most reliable gains are in document drafting, software engineering and customer correspondence.