AI Project Management Soars: 90% of Users Report Positive Returns

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming project management, delivering significant benefits and driving further investment according to a new report by Capterra, a leading software review platform.

The Capterra Most Impactful PM Tools Survey surveyed 2,500 project managers globally, with a specific focus on the 46% who currently use AI in their project management tools. The findings reveal a clear trend: AI is leading to notable improvements in productivity, efficiency, and risk mitigation.

Positive ROI Breeds Confidence in AI

The survey results paint a positive picture for AI adoption. A staggering 90% of project managers using AI tools reported a positive return on investment (ROI) over the past year. This success story is fostering increased confidence in AI technologies, with project managers planning for an average increase of 36% in their AI investments by 2025.

Proactive Risk Management for Project Success

Over half (54%) of project managers are leveraging AI tools to predict potential project risks and recommend mitigation strategies. AI’s ability to analyse historical data and identify past project failures allows for proactive adjustments to plans, minimising the likelihood of delays and budget overruns.

Boosting Efficiency with Automation

The survey also highlights the automation capabilities of AI, with nearly all respondents (94%) expressing confidence in their ability to lead AI implementation projects. By automating repetitive tasks such as status updates and reporting, AI allows project managers to dedicate more time to strategic decision-making and stakeholder engagement. This automation is a key driver of increased productivity and efficiency, with 63% of project managers citing these improvements as the top benefits of AI.

Predictive Analytics Drive Better Planning

AI-powered predictive analytics are empowering project managers to build more robust project plans. By anticipating potential issues before they arise, AI can, for example, forecast price increases in key materials. This allows construction managers to plan contingencies and adjust budgets accordingly.

“Project managers are seeing significant returns from their AI investments, particularly in risk management, task automation, and predictive analytics,” says Olivia Montgomery, associate principal analyst at Capterra. “These tools are empowering project managers to tackle complex challenges more effectively.”

Confidence in AI Grows, But Training Needs Identified

The survey reveals a growing comfort level with AI delegation, with 88% of project managers expressing confidence in the technology’s capabilities. This newfound trust allows project managers to focus on more critical aspects of their projects. However, the survey also identifies a need for education and training around AI.

As AI technologies continue to evolve, project managers anticipate further advancements in task automation, predictive analytics, and project planning over the next year. By embracing these advancements, businesses can empower project managers to deliver projects more successfully and fuel organisational growth.

For a more detailed analysis and recommendations, visit the full report on Capterra.