28 October 2026
SDS study highlights how AI is changing Scotland’s workplaces
Skills Development Scotland (SDS), in partnership with CBI Economics, has published the first report in its Spotlight on AI series, exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing work, skills and workforce needs across Scotland. The October 2026 report draws on evidence from 164 Scottish businesses and 22 targeted interviews with employers and education and training providers.
Research by the two organisations has found that artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming part of everyday working life in Scotland, although most businesses are still at an early stage of adoption. 34% of organisations use AI across some business functions, while 12% are planning its introduction and only 2% have fully embedded it across most functions. 46% reported informal or individual use. Among businesses already using AI, 87% use generative AI tools.
AI is currently changing working practices more than overall employment levels. While 74% of businesses reported no major change in headcount and 6% expect increases, 18% anticipate AI-related headcount reductions over the next three years, with routine and administrative tasks particularly exposed.
Employers also highlighted the continuing importance of human skills, including critical thinking, judgement and communication, alongside the ability to use AI confidently and responsibly.
The research forms part of a wider initiative to strengthen Scotland’s understanding of changing workforce needs. SDS is developing an AI Workforce Intelligence Hub with CBI Economics to bring together employer insights, labour market analysis and evidence to inform skills planning. You can register to get updates from the Hub.
SDS and the CBI are hosting a free webinar on the findings on 12 November 2026 at midday, as part of Scottish Careers Week, and you can register here.
Read more about how AI effects Scotland’s workplaces.
Research by the two organisations has found that artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming part of everyday working life in Scotland, although most businesses are still at an early stage of adoption. 34% of organisations use AI across some business functions, while 12% are planning its introduction and only 2% have fully embedded it across most functions. 46% reported informal or individual use. Among businesses already using AI, 87% use generative AI tools.
AI is currently changing working practices more than overall employment levels. While 74% of businesses reported no major change in headcount and 6% expect increases, 18% anticipate AI-related headcount reductions over the next three years, with routine and administrative tasks particularly exposed.
Employers also highlighted the continuing importance of human skills, including critical thinking, judgement and communication, alongside the ability to use AI confidently and responsibly.
The research forms part of a wider initiative to strengthen Scotland’s understanding of changing workforce needs. SDS is developing an AI Workforce Intelligence Hub with CBI Economics to bring together employer insights, labour market analysis and evidence to inform skills planning. You can register to get updates from the Hub.
SDS and the CBI are hosting a free webinar on the findings on 12 November 2026 at midday, as part of Scottish Careers Week, and you can register here.
Read more about how AI effects Scotland’s workplaces.
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28 October 2026