Through the move, Accenture said “tens of thousands” of its staff will be able to use the tool for their consulting, operations and delivery work.

Accenture and OpenAI are also launching an AI programme that will offer Accenture access to playbooks, industry use cases, security insights and other expertise aimed at helping clients to adopt AI within their business processes.

The companies will work together to develop AI approaches focused on corporate functions including customer service, supply chain and human resources – for example, to help clients design and use custom AI agents.

Julie Sweet, chair and chief executive, Accenture, said: “By combining OpenAI breakthrough technologies with Accenture’s deep industry and functional expertise and global delivery capabilities, we will accelerate enterprise reinvention and business outcomes for our clients.”