As AI adoption continues to dominate headlines and boardroom agendas, corporate communicators are forced to keep pace with changing expectations on implementation, risk, and messaging.
The latest Gravity Insiders analysis provides a timely look into how senior executives are deploying AI, where companies are leading or lagging, and the strategies emerging to manage risk. Our proprietary survey data–drawn from a panel including communications executives across the Fortune 500–offers a clear-eyed view into how organizations are approaching AI strategy, usage, and external communication.
Key Findings
Most companies are mid-pack on AI adoption. 69% of executives report their company is “somewhere in the middle” on AI adoption, with just 11% identifying as “leading the race.” This self-assessment often contrasts with public messaging and framing on earnings calls, where speaking to AI usage has become a business imperative.
Communicators are keeping pace on AI adoption. Usage among communications and marketing teams (78%) matches that of IT and engineering (78%), signaling that communications departments are firmly embedded in the enterprise AI rollout. By contrast, adoption remains limited among finance, legal, and executive leadership, potentially reflecting both the risk sensitivity of these functions.
Most executives are in the dark on AI allocation. Despite widespread use, 80% of surveyed executives are unaware of their company’s annual AI budget. This may reflect the wider trend of corporate prioritization of speed and innovation over disciplined, cross-department tracking of AI-related expenses.
Download the full report to learn how communications leaders across the Fortune 500 are framing AI adoption, and their strategies for addressing associated risks.
Methodology
Gravity Insiders surveys our panel of 200+ communications and public affairs executives at Fortune 500 or equivalent companies on headlining issues and emerging trends impacting reputational risk. Our latest Q3 2025 Pulse Poll surveyed 45 executives between September 2–12, 2025. Respondents primarily reflect senior-most leaders within their organizations.
