The partnership between Cognizant and Microsoft may help ease some of that, as Cognizant’s consulting services can help enterprises find ways to leverage copilots as part of their business processes.

Bernard Marr, author of the book Generative AI in Practice: 100+ Amazing Ways Generative Artificial Intelligence is Changing Business and Society, sees the partnership representing a significant shift in how CIOs approach digital transformation.

“It means they can now leverage AI technology to enhance operational efficiency, reduce manual work, and innovate at scale,” he said. “CIOs will need to focus on aligning AI-driven solutions with broader business strategies, ensuring seamless integration into existing processes while addressing potential challenges like data security and ethical AI use. This partnership provides CIOs with access to AI tools that can greatly accelerate innovation and improve customer experiences.”

However, Marr said that the reduced need for labor due to AI automation does not necessarily translate into reduced costs. While AI can streamline workflows and enhance productivity, there’s a significant investment in AI infrastructure, training, and ongoing maintenance, he said.

“Moreover, the value delivered by AI goes beyond simple task automation — it includes enhanced innovation, improved quality, and additional capabilities that would otherwise require extensive human resources,” he added. “Therefore, while AI can reduce manual labor, its impact on costs should be viewed within the broader context of the added value it brings.”

AI concerns remain

While the collaboration between Microsoft and Cognizant might help CIOs better integrate generative AI into their enterprise strategies, its use still carries uncertainties, Marr said.