LONDON and NOIDA, India, June 9, 2025— In a world where digital transformation is no longer optional, HCLTech’s latest research, titled The Blueprint to AI-led Operating Model: Mastering the Art of Engineering Value at Velocity, reveals how Product-Aligned Operating Models (PAOMs) are becoming the blueprint for future-ready organizations.
The report has revealed that 9 in 10 firms with a traditional operating model fail to drive meaningful returns from their investments. In an AI-driven market defined by constant disruption, a product-aligned operating model (PAOM) is emerging as the key differentiator.
The research surveyed 550 senior IT and business decision-makers across the US, Europe and Asia-Pacific. Key findings:
- 88% of enterprises are moving towards a PAOMs, with another 12% expecting to implement it within the next 3 years. Yet, 100% report facing implementation challenges.
- Generative AI (GenAI) is a game-changer: Nearly half (47%) believe GenAI will enhance product lifecycle management and decision-making, with APAC leading in adoption.
- Leadership and culture are critical: 95% of respondents say their organizations need a cultural and mindset shift to realize the full value of PAOMs. Leadership buy-in and alignment remain top barriers.
- Customer feedback is the untapped goldmine: Only 17% of organizations use customer feedback to its full potential, despite 94% acknowledging its importance in product development.
- Collaboration fuels innovation: While a third of organizations actively engage in cross-functional collaboration, yet 99.6% still see room for improvement.
- AI investment pays off: One in two firms with a product-aligned operating model invests in AI and is four times more likely to maximize their ROI on their AI spend compared to traditional organizations.
“A product-aligned operating model brings teams together around a shared vision, promoting cross-functional collaboration and enhancing operational efficiency. This approach enables enterprises to innovate effectively and increase their chances of achieving customer-focused outcomes,” said Ashish Kumar Gupta, Chief Growth Officer, Europe and Africa, Diversified Industries, HCLTech.
“As disruption becomes the norm, product-aligned operating model isn't just an option—it’s a necessity,” said Pawan Vadapalli, Corporate Vice President and Global Head, Digital Business Services, HCLTech. “HCLTech Fenix and AI Force offer a clear path to navigate complexities, blending strategy, technology and agility to turn disruption into innovation and deliver impactful results.”
To explore the complete insights and recommendations, download the report: https://www.hcltech.com/ai-led-operating-model
About the Research
The study, commissioned by HCLTech, includes responses from 550 senior leaders in industries such as manufacturing, BFSI, healthcare and technology, representing organizations with an average annual revenue of $5 billion.
About HCLTech
HCLTech is a global technology company, home to more than 223,000 people across 60 countries, delivering industry-leading capabilities centered around digital, engineering, cloud and AI, powered by a broad portfolio of technology services and products. We work with clients across all major verticals, providing industry solutions for Financial Services, Manufacturing, Life Sciences and Healthcare, High Tech, Semiconductor, Telecom and Media, Retail and CPG and Public Services. Consolidated revenues as of 12 months ending March 2025 totaled $13.8 billion. To learn how we can supercharge progress for you, visit hcltech.com.
For more information, please contact:
Meredith Bucaro, Americas
meredith-bucaro@hcltech.com
Elka Ghudial, EMEA
elka.ghudial@hcltech.com
James Galvin, APAC
james.galvin@hcltech.com
Nitin Shukla, India
nitin-shukla@hcltech.com