FROM TOOLS TO AUTONOMOUS AGENTS: RETHINKING AI-DRIVEN BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION
Received: 2026-05-29
Published: 2026-06-06
Abstract
This paper explores the emerging phase of enterprise transformation driven by the transition from traditional AI automation tools to autonomous and semi-autonomous agentic AI systems. While generative AI and large language models (LLMs) have enhanced productivity in cognitive tasks and isolated workflows, systemic enterprise transformation remains uneven. To address this challenge, we propose a three-dimensional conceptual framework linking: (1) technical agent capabilities (reasoning, planning, and cross-system orchestration); (2) organizational readiness (data infrastructure maturity, process modularity, and human-AI collaboration); and (3) governance mechanisms (autonomy regulation, accountability, and risk containment). Furthermore, we discuss the coordination challenges of multi-agent ecosystems, cybersecurity, and ethics, including accountability diffusion and algorithmic drift. By conceptualizing AI agents as socio-technical actors, this study frames intelligent transformation as an organizational design challenge for achieving sustained competitive advantage.
Keywords
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.