True AI Transformation Requires an Industry Perspective
In our conversations with customers, many are asking about the next wave of AI. They’re ready to expand beyond general AI applications and invest in solutions tailored to their specific challenges. While organizations recognize AI’s value and potential, it must address industry-specific needs to deliver the biggest results.
Where to Invest in AI for Maximum Impact
Today’s leaders are looking beyond AI for productivity and asking a bigger question: Where should we invest next to drive business growth? The key is to align AI investments with mission-critical priorities.
So, is the AI for industry buzz real, and is it worth the investment? The answer is yes—here’s why:
- Industry-specific AI solutions tackle complex challenges, such as regulatory compliance in financial services, seamless omnichannel shopping experiences in retail, and asset troubleshooting in manufacturing.
- Customizable AI agents in Microsoft Copilot Studio help businesses tailor AI to their needs.
- AI models, developed in collaboration with partners, and built for specific industries make adoption easier across every sector and region.
To see industry-specific AI in action, let’s explore key use cases in financial services, retail, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Driving Growth in Financial Services with AI
Financial services organizations are leading the way in AI adoption, and it’s paying off. They’re realizing a 4.2 times average ROI on generative AI initiatives—the highest across industries. Discover how PicPay uses Microsoft AI to answer product and service questions quickly and securely.
Retailers Solve Complex Challenges with AI
Retailers are realizing a 3.6 times ROI on generative AI initiatives, and some are tackling customer acquisition, profitability, supply chain reliability, and data complexity. Learn how ASOS, a British online fashion retailer, uses Azure AI Foundry to surprise and delight young fashion lovers with engaging, inspirational experiences.
How AI Powers Smarter Manufacturing
Manufacturers are achieving a 3.4 times ROI on generative AI initiatives. They’re also using AI to speed time to market, streamline application lifecycle management, and simplify manufacturing processes. See how Schneider Electric addresses the company’s most pressing issues by innovating with Azure OpenAI Service.
AI Helps Empower the Healthcare Workforce and Enhance Patient Care
In healthcare, AI is transforming medical data management, personalizing clinician and patient experiences, and helping to improve patient outcomes—delivering a 3.3 times ROI on generative AI initiatives. See how AI innovation empowers healthcare teams to refocus on the clinician-patient connection at Northwestern Medicine, Overlake Medical Center & Clinics, and Atrium Health.
Conclusion
Organizations that invest in industry-focused AI applications and stay current with AI industry trends are realizing the greatest ROI with AI. We’re here to help you take action now and position your business for innovation, efficiency, and competitive advantage.
FAQs
Q: What is the ROI of AI?
A: The ROI of AI varies by industry, with financial services achieving the highest average ROI of 4.2 times.
Q: What are the key use cases for AI in industry?
A: Key use cases for AI in industry include personalized shopping, store operations, and AI-powered insights in retail; AI-powered generative design, AI-assisted coding, and AI-powered factory insights in manufacturing; and AI assistants, advanced healthcare AI models, and multimodal AI in healthcare.
Q: How can I drive AI success in my organization?
A: To drive AI success, invest in industry-focused AI applications, stay current with AI industry trends, and align AI investments with mission-critical priorities.

