One-in-five Northern Ireland firms are formally using artificial intelligence (AI) as part of their business operations, a new survey suggests.
New research carried out by GCD Technologies in partnership with the Institute of Directors (IoD), indicates that a further 48% of businesses in the north are currently exploring or planning to adopt AI into their workplace.
Some 200 businesses across Northern Ireland took part in the study, with each employing at least 20 people.
The research involved interviews were conducted by Cognisense across May and June.
According to the survey, 19% currently use AI, of which just 39% are using it strategically, the equivalent of 8% overall.
Kind findings of the survey carried out by GCD Technologies and endorsed by the IoD. (Ryan)
Firms within that bracket said they already see AI as core to their business strategy, with formal policies in place.
However, 72% of non-strategic adopters expect AI to become a core part of their business strategy.
The most common strategic use of AI cited was to automate core processes (64%), followed by improving the customer interactions (59%) and enhancing product innovation (47%).
The vast majority (86%) of those currently using AI strategically say they are seeing efficiency improvements, with 71% reporting stronger customer experiences.
Just over half (58%) say they are already experiencing revenue growth.
Kind findings of the survey carried out by GCD Technologies and endorsed by the IoD. (Ryan)
“The survey findings give us a fantastic picture of how local companies are dealing with the growth in prominence of AI,” said GCD’s managing director, Andrew Gough.
“Less than one-fifth are currently using AI, and of these, about four in 10 are applying it in a custom or strategic way.
“The reality is that most businesses are still experimenting with general-purpose tools such as ChatGPT, focusing on quick wins like workflow automation, content generation and improving data quality.
“But while useful, these applications only scratch the surface of what AI can deliver.”
The tech boss added: “The difference is clear. AI delivers its biggest impact when it is aligned to core business objectives and used as a driver of innovation rather than simply an efficiency tool.”
Kirsty McManus, director at the IoD in Northern Ireland, said: “Business leaders in Northern Ireland who are early adopters of AI are excited about the potential benefits.
“However, many businesses are facing a range of challenges when it comes to implementing and managing AI from the top down.
“These include gaps in skills and expertise at board level, as well as broader concerns around trust, reliability, security, and the actual value AI can bring to their organisations.”