- SMEs adopting AI are saving 5.2 hours per week per decision maker, but adoption is not equal
- 37% of individual entrepreneurs and 25% of microbusinesses do not use tools like ChatGPT
- OpenAI believes exposure and experimentation could drive usage
New data from OpenAI shows that UK workers are already well versed in artificial intelligence, with the technology now saving the average SME decision maker an average of 5.2 hours per week – the equivalent of more than half a day.
However, while AI is having profound impacts on the productivity of some workers, others are at risk of being left behind, with up to one in five (19%) UK SMEs not using AI at all.
This appears to be even more pronounced among smaller businesses, with only 5% of medium-sized businesses considered non-users compared to 37% of sole proprietors and 25% of micro-businesses.
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OpenAI says British SMEs are ready to reap the benefits of AI
The report suggests that the foundation is already in place for SMEs to free up some time using even some of the most basic AI tools, but divisions are already starting to emerge. As well as lower uptake among smaller businesses, OpenAI also highlighted regional divisions with adoption rates of up to 93% in London, compared to around 75% in Yorkshire and the Humber, the South West and Scotland.
The figures also point to lower adoption among older workers, with a significant 40% of decision makers over 55 not using AI compared to just 8% of those aged 18 to 34.
Citing benefits such as time savings, error reduction, and lower costs, OpenAI says workers can reinvest those 5.2 hours per week into creative thinking, strategic planning, and product improvement; However, more needs to be done to encourage the use of AI among non-adopters.
A joint effort between ChatGPT creator, Booking.com and Enterprise Nation clearly indicates that exposure and experimentation are key, with a London-based scheme offering hands-on training, demos and peer-to-peer learning opportunities; However, with adoption at an all-time high in London, the company could do better by expanding this to other regions.
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