Custom AI Agents Signal Major Workforce And Development Shifts, Says OutSystems Study

Custom AI agents are poised to reshape how enterprises build software and structure their workforces, according to new research from OutSystems. The global survey of 550 software executives found that 93% of companies are actively developing or planning to develop their own AI agents, highlighting the fast-growing adoption of so-called ‘agentic AI’.

The study, created with CIO Dive and KPMG, suggests businesses are embracing AI agents as a strategic response to mounting pressure for digital transformation, faster innovation, and cost-efficient operations. Agentic AI offers a solution by automating complex processes, integrating siloed systems, and enabling personalised digital interactions at scale.

“AI agents are no longer just a concept—they’re becoming operational building blocks within organisations,” said Woodson Martin, CEO of OutSystems. “Soon, they’ll function like specialised digital teams, identifying business opportunities and refining solutions without direct human intervention.”

Beyond streamlining development cycles, AI agents are altering the makeup of software teams. OutSystems’ data shows that nearly 70% of executives expect AI to introduce new, specialised roles such as agent orchestration and oversight positions. Additionally, 63% anticipate significant reskilling of existing staff to manage and work alongside AI tools.

AI’s business value is also becoming clearer: more than half of respondents cited improved customer experiences, accelerated software development timelines, and the automation of repetitive tasks as key benefits. Customer service leads current AI agent deployment, but executives are eyeing broader use across product development, marketing, and supply chains.

However, the study also underscores risks tied to AI proliferation. Governance and compliance concerns top the list, alongside fears over the transparency of AI decision-making and the growing technical debt caused by uncoordinated AI deployments.

Michael Harper of KPMG LLP noted, “Many organisations that began with cautious AI pilots are now seeing tangible productivity and quality gains. This is giving them the confidence to integrate AI more broadly into their operations.”

As businesses increasingly lean on AI-powered autonomy to scale and innovate, the emergence of AI agents signals a turning point not just for software development, but for workforce strategy and organisational design.

© Scoop Media