IT Consulting Has a Big AI Problem
CIO, Thursday, September 10th, 2026
AI is compressing the work behind big transformation projects, challenging the value of long, large IT consulting engagements.
Organizations are using AI to speed large digital transformation projects such as cloud modernization and mainframe migrations, leading some IT leaders to question multi-year consulting engagements. McKinsey, Deloitte, EY and KPMG have all announced layoffs in recent months.
Edwin Miranda of konsultora says big firms keep advantages in expertise and global delivery, but AI attacks their labor-heavy operating model, shifting value toward judgment, architecture, governance and outcomes.
Others, like Helium SEO CTO Paul DeMott, see a bleaker outlook as clients run their own analysis with off-the-shelf AI tools.