UK business leaders are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) for decision-making, with 62% of executives reporting that they rely on AI for most of their business decisions. The trend is highlighted in Confluent's ‘Quick Thinking 2026’ report, based on a survey of 200 UK CEOs, MDs, and C-level executives, examining AI’s role in business decision-making.
The report shows a shift in decision-making practices: 70% of leaders now question their own judgement when it conflicts with AI recommendations, and 65% report a reduction in collaborative decision-making since integrating AI, with some prioritising AI outputs over colleagues’ input.
AI is being applied in areas including whether to implement AI (47%), timing of AI implementation (33%), workforce decisions such as hiring and firing (27%), and broader people management (25%). For 79% of leaders, confidence in AI depends on the quality of the underlying data.
Most leaders (91%) indicated they would feel more confident using AI if it were powered by real-time data reflecting current business operations. To support this, 67% of organisations plan to increase investment in data streaming technologies, ensuring AI receives accurate and relevant business insights.
While AI can support decision-making, it functions only with the data provided. Inaccurate or outdated data can result in misguided decisions. Enhancing data frameworks with real-time capabilities is therefore important for effective AI utilisation.
