Everyone Is Implementing AI

AI is undoubtedly a generational change in software, with its full trajectory still unpredictable. There is a perceived divide between the “Haves” and “Have Nots.” Companies like OpenAI, Microsoft, and Databricks are seen as understanding AI’s potential, with Nvidia providing the necessary hardware support. Many hot start-ups are Gen AI native, continuing to attract unicorn valuations. Meanwhile, several SaaS leaders appear to be lagging behind. We say, Everyone Is Implementing AI.

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Zendesk and Intercom are fully committed to AI, even as numerous start-ups develop AI chatbots.
ServiceNow attributes significant growth to AI-driven workflows.
Asana is heavily investing in AI, despite single-digit growth.
Salesforce and Marc Benioff emphasize being AI-first, although their growth has also slowed to single digits.
ZoomInfo has introduced an exciting Sales AI Co-Pilot.

Marc Benioff stated in their latest quarterly call:

“Now, we’re working with thousands of customers to power generative AI use cases with our Einstein Copilot, our prompt builder, our Einstein Studio, all of which went live in the first quarter. And we’ve closed hundreds of copilot deals since this incredible technology has gone GA. And in just the last few months, we’re seeing Einstein Copilot develop higher levels of capability. We are absolutely delighted and cannot be more excited about the success that we’re seeing with our customers with this great new capability.”
Everyone Is Implementing AI

However, it remains unclear whether simply adding AI to classic B2B SaaS products accelerates growth. Despite significant investments in AI, companies like Salesforce, Asana, and ZoomInfo are growing at less than 10% annually.

The main point is that while “AI Washing” might impress some investors, AI must significantly accelerate revenue growth to achieve more than market parity. It is essential to see how AI can add real value and integrate it effectively. But AI alone may not be a growth accelerant.

Everyone Is Implementing AI

Recent data from Emergence Capital shows that 60% of VC-backed SaaS companies have already released GenAI features, with another 24% planning to do so. Achieving “AI Parity” is crucial, but simply adding GenAI features may not be disruptive in the B2B space. Companies must go further to stand out, despite the challenges.