KPMG, a giant in the accounting and consulting space, is spearheading a remarkable shift towards AI, signaling the rapid spread of this transformative technology across the corporate ecosystem.

With operations in 143 countries and territories and a colossal workforce of 265,000, KPMG’s strategic move toward AI isn’t just a technical upgrade. It’s indicative of a global trend where companies, irrespective of their domains, are acknowledging the game-changing potential of AI in streamlining operations, bolstering security, and optimizing performance.

So, what’s cooking in KPMG’s AI kitchen? A whopping $2 billion investment over five years, as part of a collaborative venture with tech titan Microsoft. While the exact monetary commitment from Microsoft remains under wraps, it’s evident that both are keen on co-developing generative AI solutions, revolutionizing traditional business processes and service delivery.

For Carl Carande, the global head of KPMG Advisory, AI’s prowess isn’t just theoretical. Envision using AI to make predictive stocking decisions based on market inclinations and sales patterns. The technology can sift through historical data at unmatched speeds, revealing correlations and trends often elusive to human observers.

Switching the lens to cybersecurity, generative AI emerges as a formidable ally. While the human touch—experience, intuition, and inside knowledge—is irreplaceable, AI amplifies threat detection, hastening the reaction time.

Already, KPMG’s U.S. team is harnessing the potential of generative AI chat tools. Crafted using OpenAI’s technology, these tools have been instrumental in content drafting, code creation, and document summarization, just to name a few. And for those eyeing the elephant in the room—no, their AI endeavors haven’t led to layoffs. Carande clarifies that despite previous reports suggesting workforce reductions, AI hasn’t been a factor.

However, the landscape of hiring is undeniably evolving. The professionals of tomorrow will possess a unique blend of their core skills and technical proficiency, harnessing AI tools like ChatGPT to amplify their output. As Carande succinctly puts it, this synergy will allow professionals to “add more value faster.”

While Microsoft chose to keep its cards close to its chest, the corporate world should take note. KPMG’s sizable investment in AI isn’t just a business decision; it’s a clarion call for other players to recognize and harness the disruptive potential of artificial intelligence.