AI Adoption Surges Among SMEs, But Support Needed for Full Potential
A new Sage report indicates an 85% increase in AI adoption among European SMEs since January 2023. While productivity is improving, the full transformative potential remains untapped.
The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has seen a significant acceleration, according to a new report released by Sage. In Europe, the number of SMEs that have integrated AI into their operations has grown by 85% since January 2023. However, the study highlights that many businesses have yet to fully leverage AI's capacity for business growth and efficiency.
The research reveals that 90% of European AI adopters report improvements in productivity, and 75% believe AI has positively impacted customer interactions. The adoption rates vary regionally, with the UK (60%) and the US (64%) leading, while France lags at 35%.
Aaron Harris, Chief Technology Officer at Sage, emphasized the need for support and reliable information to enable successful AI implementation for SMEs. "Trust is key – clear information, practical guidance, and solutions that fit their needs are essential," Harris stated.
Sage is developing an AI assistant, Sage Copilot, aimed at helping SMEs automate tasks and make more informed decisions. Businesses perceive AI as a leveling force against larger corporations, with 59% of French SMEs believing it democratizes access to advanced tools. The report also underscores the role of governments in establishing standards and fostering collaboration for responsible AI use.