The conversation around managed services in the US has fundamentally changed. It’s no longer about outsourcing; it’s about outcomes. Our 2026 Managed Services Outlook, with research and analysis by IDC, provides critical managed services insights, revealing a major shift in how managed services are evolving. For US leaders, managed services are now a core strategic priority, and the primary driver for adoption has moved beyond efficiency. US executives are seeking partners who deliver deep AI expertise coupled with a strategic mindset. They aren’t just looking to offload tasks; they’re seeking a partner to orchestrate complexity at speed, insulate the business from risk, and leapfrog traditional transformation cycles.
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Accelerating AI with managed services
KPMG Managed Services Outlook 2026
Get in-depth insights and data from our full global survey report on accelerating AI transformation with managed services.
Key insights from the report
As the pace of technology outpaces the ability to absorb it, US businesses now see managed services as the primary engine for enterprise transformation, with AI as the fuel. When US leaders choose a partner, AI capability is now their single most important consideration. This priority, along with data and technology expertise, signals a strategic pivot. Businesses are moving beyond transactional contractual and pricing models are now selecting partners who can deliver strategic AI-driven value and tangible business outcomes in a constantly evolving environment.
93%
of US companies view managed services as important for agentic AI delivery.
87%
of US companies say managed services are highly integrated in their digital transformation strategy.
#1
AI capability is US buyers’ #1 consideration for managed services providers.
Methodology
The KPMG Managed Services Outlook is based on a survey of 1,224 senior leaders from large, global organizations in numerous sectors, including 304 US executives. It also draws on in-depth interviews with 10 executives in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. The majority of companies have revenue of US$1 billion to US$10 billion.
KPMG Managed Services Outlook 2026
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How KPMG delivers modern managed services
KPMG Managed Services combine advanced technology, specialized teams and an outcome-focused approach to run your critical business functions. Go beyond traditional service delivery—and traditional results—with modern managed services from KPMG.
Meet our team
Our KPMG professionals bring significant functional, industry, and technology experience to every engagement, including the latest AI, cloud, and enterprise data capabilities. Please reach out to learn more about how our modern managed services can help you transform your operations and position your organization for long-term resilience.
Bassam Khattab
Partner, Advisory, Managed Services US Leader, KPMG LLP
Cory Krutis
Principal, Advisory, Managed Services, KPMG US
Bassam Khattab
Partner, Advisory, Managed Services US Leader, KPMG LLP
Cory Krutis
Principal, Advisory, Managed Services, KPMG US