In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), consulting giant Accenture is undergoing a significant transformation to remain at the forefront of innovation. By restructuring its services and embracing AI-driven solutions, Accenture aims to redefine its role in the consulting industry.
Reinventing Services for the AI Age
Accenture has consolidated its strategy, consulting, technology, and operations services into a new unit called “Reinvention Services,” led by Chief Services Officer Manish Sharma. This reorganization is designed to streamline AI integration across its client base and accelerate the delivery of AI-powered solutions.
The company has also invested heavily in training, equipping approximately 500,000 employees with generative AI tools to meet the growing demand for AI services.
Financial Performance and AI Momentum
In the third quarter of fiscal year 2025, Accenture reported an 8% year-over-year revenue increase, reaching $17.7 billion. This growth was largely driven by the rising demand for generative AI services, with AI-related revenue surpassing $700 million during the March-May period.
Despite a 6% decline in new bookings, the company remains optimistic, adjusting its full-year revenue growth guidance to 6–7% in local currency.
Strategic Partnerships and AI Applications
Accenture has formed notable partnerships to showcase its AI capabilities. Collaborations include developing an AI-powered ship with an Italian firm that can manage energy use and communicate with ports, and creating AI-generated 3D avatars to optimize marketing for major coffee brands.
Additionally, Accenture has partnered with Intel to modernize its marketing operations using AI, resulting in significant restructuring and layoffs within Intel’s marketing division.
Challenges and Criticisms
While Accenture’s AI-driven transformation has garnered attention, it has also faced challenges. The company experienced its highest-ever quarterly drop in headcount, though specific figures were not disclosed. Furthermore, Accenture attracted criticism for discontinuing its diversity and inclusion goals earlier this year, a move that has sparked debate about its commitment to corporate responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Accenture’s “Reinvention Services”?
A: “Reinvention Services” is a consolidated unit that brings together Accenture’s strategy, consulting, technology, and operations services to streamline AI integration and deliver AI-powered solutions more efficiently.
Q: How is Accenture leveraging AI in its operations?
A: Accenture is utilizing AI to develop innovative solutions, such as AI-powered ships and marketing avatars, and has trained approximately 500,000 employees in generative AI tools to meet client demands.
Q: What financial impact has AI had on Accenture?
A: In Q3 of fiscal year 2025, Accenture’s revenue increased by 8% year-over-year, reaching $17.7 billion, with AI-related services contributing over $700 million during the March-May period.
Q: What challenges has Accenture faced during its transformation?
A: The company has experienced a decline in new bookings and its highest-ever quarterly drop in headcount. It has also faced criticism for discontinuing its diversity and inclusion goals.
Accenture’s proactive approach to embracing AI and restructuring its services positions it to remain a leader in the consulting industry as the demand for AI-driven solutions continues to grow.
Sources The Economist
