Nomura Research Institute has launched NRI AFT, a new service that promotes AX (AI transformation) by stationing teams on site. This article outlines the service and its applicability to the challenges faced by Japanese companies.
On 3 August 2026, Nomura Research Institute launched NRI AFT (AI Field Transformer), a service that provides end-to-end support for AI-driven business transformation (AX), from developing the initial concept through to operations. Unlike conventional AI implementation support, its on-site embedded model is characterized by working alongside clients while converting tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge.
AX support teams will be stationed at client companies, combining NRI’s consulting expertise and engineering capabilities with a secure AI platform to provide integrated support from concept development through to operations. Support will continue after implementation, with rapid validation cycles and efforts to improve the value of AI agents.
The service is positioned as addressing challenges including the increasing complexity of core systems at Japanese companies, the difficulty of cross-functional decision-making, and tacit knowledge accumulated in the field. It also indicates that engineers will need hybrid skills spanning both on-site operations and technology.