IDC Predicts Enterprises Will Run 60% of AI Workloads on Open-Source Models by 2028

IDC released its FutureScape 2027 predictions, projecting that enterprises will execute 60% of their AI workloads on open-source models by 2028. Additionally, the report forecasts that 60% of Global 2000 companies will transition to AI-first business processes by 2029, up significantly from 13% today. This trend highlights a major industry shift toward open-source models and multi-model routing strategies, which help organizations reduce inference costs, prevent vendor lock-in, and manage agentic workflows efficiently. As AI becomes deeply integrated into business operations, companies must also adopt strict governance measures like kill switches to mitigate operational and insurance risks. By 2028, 75% of Global 2000 enterprises are expected to incorporate AI agent liability clauses into technical contracts, and those lacking production emergency stop switches will face a 25% premium hike in liability insurance. Furthermore, the report notes that while junior roles will shift toward AI orchestration, about half of mid-market enterprises with 1,000 to 4,999 employees actually expect to increase entry-level headcount over the next 18 months.