Technology news and discussion on TalkFuse.
Consultancy’s multi-billion-dollar AI gamble, but where is the real return?
Consultancies are using frontier AI platforms to automate junior-level work such as research, presentation preparation and document review, changing how teams spend their time. The technology’s impact is becoming clearer, but firms still face a central question: whether the gains justify the investment.
In an eight-week case study, BDO deal teams asked Model ML’s platform more than 10,000 questions, analysed over 25,000 documents and produced more than 14,000 review comments. The article says the Big Four firms have committed several million pounds to AI, while consultants argue that returns depend on both the tools’ capabilities and staff adoption. Model ML, which works with firms including PwC, Deloitte and BDO, was valued at more than $1 billion (£748 million) and raised over $100 million in its first 18 months.
In short
- AI is taking on routine consulting work.
- BDO teams used the platform extensively in eight weeks.
- Returns depend on adoption as well as the technology.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Automating research, presentation preparation and document review could reduce time spent on repetitive junior-level tasks, allowing consultants to focus more on analysis and client work. The BDO case study suggests these tools can already handle substantial volumes, and investment may be justified if firms can turn that capacity into better service and lasting productivity gains.
The case against
The scale of use does not by itself show that AI delivers a worthwhile return: the story gives no clear evidence of net savings, improved quality or benefits to clients after costs are counted. Firms are committing significant sums while results depend on tool capability and staff adoption, so caution is reasonable until those gains are demonstrated.