AI and business management software: New scenarios for companies

Between 2024 and 2025, over 250 software companies participated in a study investigating how AI is being integrated into Italian businesses, the level of spending involved, and the sectors where its impact is most significant. Compared to 2024, there is a significant increase in the number of software companies planning to invest more than 5% of their revenue: the share is expected to rise from 39% to 51% in 2025.

AI adoption among businesses is growing (from 24% in the initial surveys to 28% currently), though new integrations are slowing—indicating a consolidation of existing solutions. The most affected areas include software development (78%), customer support (68%), and application solutions (56%), with increasing interest in training (35%). Operational efficiency remains a priority: 86% of companies aim for organizational benefits, 54% target economic advantages, while 38% of customers reject additional costs - making monetization a persistent challenge.

These are some of the key findings from the research “Artificial Intelligence in Business Management Software,” conducted by SDA Bocconi School of Management for AssoSoftware—the Confindustria association representing IT companies responsible for over 90% of business, intermediary, and public administration management software in Italy.

Based on a survey conducted by AssoSoftware among its member companies, the study explores the current state and future prospects of the convergence between business management software and AI-enabled systems, with a particular focus on present and future use cases.

The research presentation—sponsored by the Agency for Digital Italy (AgID) and the National Cybersecurity Agency—also fostered debate through two panel discussions moderated by Professors Oreste Pollicino and Gianluigi Castelli. These panels featured prominent figures from institutional and corporate sectors, including Alberto Barachini, Undersecretary to the Presidency of the Council of Ministers; Mario Nobile, Director General of AgID; Alessandro Fermi, Regional Minister for Universities, Research, and Innovation in Lombardy; Hon. Giulio Centemero (Lega); Hon. Silvia Roggiani (PD); Giacomo Mariotti, CEO of Bluenext Srl; Giovanni Mocchi, Vice President of Zucchetti Group; Francesca Moriani, CEO of Var Group SpA; and Riccardo Ocleppo, AI Delegate of the Dylog Buffetti Group.

"The research results confirm software’s role as a cornerstone for managing and integrating AI into businesses," stated Pierfrancesco Angeleri, President of AssoSoftware. "In this context, it is crucial to promote software adoption—especially among SMEs—through more impactful structural incentives than those offered by the Transition 5.0 Plan, which, as the data show, is struggling due to excessive bureaucratic burdens. We need a major investment program to support tech companies, attract foreign investment, and foster the ideas of students and young entrepreneurs—so that Italy can aspire to become the European hub for AI-driven software applications," Angeleri added.

“It emerges that Artificial Intelligence is currently perceived as a high-impact technology by most Italian companies, with over 90% of them planning investments in the next 12 months,” stated Professor Leonardo Maria De Rossi. “Not only that, but it also shows how the planned investments by companies follow a growth path, translating into the actual integration of AI in the solutions they offer: about 30% of companies already integrate AI solutions, while over 60% plan to do so within two years,” said Professor Lorenzo Diaferia.

“Artificial Intelligence undoubtedly presents an extraordinary opportunity for businesses, but its implementation must be guided by a conscious and mature approach. Our research highlights how business management software providers play a crucial role in promoting AI adoption beyond mere hype—ensuring companies are not swept up in a trend without solid foundations. Recent years have shown the risks of a reckless rush toward technological innovation that often overlooks real business needs. Today, more than ever, it is essential to adopt a post-digital perspective—integrating AI into corporate frameworks with economic and organizational sustainability in mind. In this regard, the role of business management software providers is irreplaceable.

The goal is not just to innovate but to ensure that every AI investment generates tangible, lasting value for businesses. The challenge for software providers is to promote and facilitate the responsible and targeted use of AI, delivering real competitive advantages to Italian companies," concluded Professor Severino Meregalli, who coordinated the research.

SDA Bocconi School of Management