81% of Financial Firms Worry About ‘Automation Armageddon’ Amidst Rising Process Complexity

The 2025 State of Process Orchestration and Automation Report published by Camunda reveals concerning trends in the financial services sector. A staggering 81% of organizations are increasingly worried about the phenomenon referred to as “digital chaos,” which stems from intricate, interconnected, and automated business processes. This article delves into the report’s findings and highlights the implications for businesses navigating the complexities of automation.

Understanding Digital Chaos in Financial Services

According to the report, financial services organizations are currently managing an average of 50 endpoints for task execution. This complexity significantly raises business risks and complicates effective process management. The report indicates that:

• 81% of respondents reported increased compliance risks.
• 71% experienced a heightened risk of core business process failures.

These issues may lead to a scenario termed “Automation Armageddon,” where organizations struggle to keep up with their automated systems.

The Importance of Process Orchestration

Kurt Petersen, Senior Vice President of Customer Success at Camunda, emphasizes the necessity of end-to-end process orchestration and automation for achieving positive business outcomes. He states, “In today’s digital landscape, organizations face the challenge of complex and interdependent digital infrastructures.” Petersen warns that without decisive action, automation initiatives could lead to fragile solutions, increased costs, and diminished agility.

Challenges with AI Integration

The report also uncovers hurdles in scaling and operationalizing artificial intelligence (AI). Despite a strong desire to enhance AI capabilities, many organizations face significant challenges:

• 79% struggle with AI implementation across business operations.
• 78% report compliance issues due to a lack of transparency in AI applications.

Notably, 93% of organizations believe that AI must be fully integrated into orchestrated processes to maximize returns on investment.

Unlocking Automation Value

Unlocking the value from automation is a prevalent struggle for many organizations. Key statistics include:

• 80% acknowledge the need for better tools to manage process intersections.
• 77% admit to lacking control over their existing automations.

Furthermore, 90% of respondents assert that achieving hyperautomation is impossible without effective process orchestration, and 79% view the concept of an autonomous enterprise as unrealistic without these controls.

For further insights on process orchestration, you can explore Camunda’s official website. Additionally, to learn how businesses can improve their automation strategies, visit our Automation Strategies page.