Transformation in action: Why ROI becomes clearer with deeper integration

Over the past year, many support leaders have been exploring how to achieve meaningful transformation by integrating AI into their operations, beyond the initial efficiency gains. Initially, AI adoption in customer support results in faster response times and increased query resolution, but as AI becomes more embedded, its impact compounds, transforming the economics of support by enabling teams to focus on higher-value activities and revenue-generating tasks. The "2026 Customer Service Transformation Report" highlights that mature AI deployment correlates with improved customer service metrics and better measurement of ROI, shifting from cost savings to leveraging freed capacity for growth. This transformation requires a new economic model that redefines success and links performance to outcomes, as demonstrated by Intercom's deployment of Fin, which has enabled them to scale services without increasing headcount. Teams deeply integrating AI are setting a new standard for AI-powered customer service, distinguishing themselves from those in early deployment stages and illustrating the potential of AI to become foundational to the customer experience.