HR consultancy firm finds over 70% of businesses not currently using AI

What were the findings of the AI study?

One question asked the participants what concerns they have when it comes to using AI in their business. The results found that many employers are apprehensive about using AI due to security concerns. This may stem from a fear of the unknown.

In Ireland, 37% of companies listed security as their primary concern, while the UK had the lowest percentage at 26%. Australia, Canada, and New Zealand had 31%, 30%, and 30%, respectively. These statistics suggest that many employers have reservations about AI, and further research is necessary before implementing it.

The survey revealed a significant finding about the usage of AI in businesses. In the UK, more than 70% of companies are not using AI.

In Canada, 67% of companies are not utilising AI, while in New Zealand, Australia, and Ireland, the figures are 64%, 63%, and 59%, respectively. These results indicate a global fear among companies about implementing AI in their daily operations.

What did the study find about the use and function of AI in businesses?

While the percentage of companies using AI was not high, the survey revealed some interesting insights. In Canada and Ireland, 50% of the companies confirmed they use AI for administrative tasks, while in Australia it was 49% of companies.

On the other hand, UK companies (50%) and New Zealand companies (22%) reported using AI for creative writing purposes. These results suggest that AI can serve various functions within a company, although the survey does not provide a definite answer on how exactly it will be used in the future.

What do businesses think about the effects on employees and AI?

The use of AI in companies has sparked a debate regarding its long-term impact on employees. However, survey results indicate that many businesses still value their employees and do not believe they can be replaced.

In New Zealand, over half of the companies surveyed (52%) share this sentiment, followed by 45% of Australian companies, and 42% and 37% of businesses in the UK and Canada, respectively.

Interestingly, only 29% of Irish businesses surveyed agreed with this perspective, while 35% of them are uncertain about the effect AI will have on employment levels.

What is the impact of AI use on businesses that use it?

In the global survey, more than half of the participating businesses are uncertain about the impact of AI.

Specifically, 30% of business owners are unsure, while 23% believe it is still early to determine its actual impact.

However, it is worth noting that among businesses in the UK, 43% reported that AI has had a positive effect on their productivity, which is somewhat surprising.

Meanwhile, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand had 23%, 18.4%, and 17% respectively, indicating a potential trend towards the use of AI in the future.

What is the overall feeling towards AI from businesses?

The survey indicates that there is a significant security concern regarding the implementation of AI in companies, resulting in many businesses choosing not to utilise it.

However, it is still early days for AI in the corporate world, and those who believe it would have negative effects may find it to be beneficial, particularly if it can perform various business functions.

Even so, it is evident that numerous business owners value their staff and believe they are indispensable, indicating that the use of AI requires further consideration.

Free HR advice with Employers Direct

It is undeniable that AI is making a significant impact on companies. Nevertheless, employers must understand that AI should not replace the human element in their business. Companies must find a balance between technology and human involvement to reap the most benefits.

We provide free support if you’re an employer and need advice on HR issues. We offer 24/7 help to guide you through the process.

Please speak to one of our HR and employment law advisors free at 0800 152 2287 or fill in the form here to request a callback.