How and where in the company can SMEs use artificial intelligence (AI) effectively? What hurdles are currently seen and how can these be overcome? The study “Artificial intelligence in SMEs ─ making AI a game changer for small and medium-sized enterprises” explores these questions.
Applications with artificial intelligence can solve specifically defined problems. Unlike “classic” software, AI learns from existing data sets with self-optimization. This makes it possible to implement many applications more cost-effectively if the necessary data is available. With an expected value contribution of around 488 billion euros for the German economy as a whole in 2025, AI is said to have great economic potential. So far, AI has mainly been used in large companies, as it strengthens their own competitive position. Artificial intelligence has been used much less in SMEs, but they are also increasingly recognizing the potential of AI.
The results of the survey of 48 AI experts and scientists who have experience with small and medium-sized enterprises show that there are many promising applications for SMEs: Reducing costs, making processes more efficient and improving quality. In addition, artificial intelligence can be used to develop new products, services and business models. Companies can identify errors more quickly or create completely new benefits for their customers.
