Small and Medium Businesses Advance with AI but Need Training

The Rise of AI Adoption Among SMBs

Small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are making significant strides in adopting AI technologies, yet many still face challenges in fully harnessing the benefits. A recent survey including 1,400 business leaders found that 95% of decision-makers in SMBs believe they require more training to effectively utilize AI, despite 72% feeling confident in their AI capabilities.

SMBs Lead in AI Usage, but Depth is Lacking

While SMBs lead in incorporating AI into their operations, the depth of their expertise varies. Interestingly, 86% of leaders within these businesses are open to allowing employees outside the IT department to use AI tools. However, the frequency of use remains low; only one in three respondents reported daily use of AI, with merely 16% indicating weekly engagement. Despite these figures, SMBs claim greater AI maturity compared to larger organizations, with 35% of SMB leaders stating their usage is 'very mature' compared to just 22% in larger companies.

Consequences of Inaction in AI Adoption

The prospect of falling behind due to a lack of AI adoption raises alarms among SMB leaders. For 28% of them, the foremost consequence of inaction is increased operational costs resulting from missed opportunities for automation. This fear contrasts with the broader business landscape, where 26% of leaders cite falling behind competitors as their greatest concern.

Addressing Skills, Security, and System Barriers

Optimism prevails among SMB leaders, with 72% anticipating AI to drive significant productivity gains, and 76% recognizing its critical role in enhancing overall business performance. A majority, 70%, also perceive AI as a catalyst for expanding job opportunities for various workers, including parents and caregivers. However, a skills gap is evident: while 72% perceive themselves as AI experts, 95% acknowledge the need for additional training. Two major hurdles—education and security—continue to impede progress. A significant 38% of leaders attribute slow AI adoption to inadequate training, while 74% express concerns about data management risks.

Infrastructure Challenges and Future Investments

Infrastructure remains a barrier to rapid AI scaling. About 47% of SMB decision-makers report lacking the necessary systems to advance their AI initiatives promptly. Still, there's a positive outlook as 75% of these leaders plan to boost AI investments over the coming year. Three-quarters anticipate increased investment within the next six to twelve months, indicating a commitment to transitioning from AI experimentation to more sophisticated implementation.

Enhancing Productivity with TeamViewer Intelligence

As SMBs progress in their AI journeys, the challenge extends beyond access to technology; it involves seamlessly integrating it into daily operations. TeamViewer Intelligence is addressing this need by providing session insights and analytics and introducing TeamViewer CoPilot, a digital assistant that enhances IT efficiency.

TeamViewer CoPilot's Role in Transformation

TeamViewer CoPilot supports IT teams during remote support sessions, allowing agents to stay focused and make quicker, informed decisions. With its ability to automate routine tasks and provide real-time guidance, SMBs can improve service quality while avoiding added complexity. Artus Rupalla, Director of Product Management at TeamViewer, emphasized the importance of intelligent integration, stating that it's necessary for SMBs to adopt AI solutions that solve practical issues, rather than abstract challenges.

Final Thoughts and Future Prospects

The AI Opportunity Report sheds light on the perspectives of 1,400 IT, business, and operational technology leaders, highlighting the experiences of 427 SMB decision-makers. This research showcases the trends and readiness of these businesses to embrace AI fully, helping them optimize their operations and better serve their customers. As AI continues to evolve, TeamViewer remains committed to providing solutions that empower SMBs to navigate their AI journey successfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of SMB leaders feel they need more AI training?

95% of SMB decision-makers report needing more training to utilize AI effectively.

How often do SMBs use AI tools?

Only one in three SMB leaders uses AI tools daily, while 16% use them weekly.

What barriers hinder SMBs from fully adopting AI?

Key barriers include inadequate training, security concerns, and insufficient infrastructure.

What is TeamViewer CoPilot?

TeamViewer CoPilot is a digital assistant designed to streamline IT support processes during remote sessions.

How many SMBs are planning to increase AI investment?

75% of SMB leaders intend to increase their AI investments over the next 12 months.

About The Author

Hi there, I'm Hannah Lewis, a writer and financial specialist of 36 years old committed to making money understandable and approachable to everyone. Years of working in the field have given me a thorough grasp of market trends, investment techniques, and economic fundamentals. My objective is to enable people, by means of understandable, useful guidance, to take charge of their financial destiny.

I have written many articles for financial blogs over my career that simplify difficult financial ideas into understandable insights. Being financially literate is a critical ability, and I am passionate about enabling people to confidently manage their financial lives. Regardless of your level of experience, my work will help you at every stage of the investment process. I appreciate being allowed to share in your success and financial expansion.

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