- SMBs that adopt AI save 5.2 hours per decision maker per week, but adoption is not equal
- 37% of sole traders and 25% of micro-businesses 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 has profound impacts on the productivity of some workers, others risk being left behind: as many as one in five UK SMEs (19%) do not use AI at all.
This appears to be even more pronounced among small businesses, with only 5% of medium-sized businesses considered non-users, compared to 37% of sole traders and 25% of micro businesses.
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UK SMEs Ready to Reap the Benefits of AI, OpenAI Says
The report suggests that the foundations are already in place for SMEs to save time using even some of the most basic AI tools, but divisions are already beginning to emerge. As well as lower adoption among small businesses, OpenAI also highlighted regional divisions with adoption rates of up to 93% in London, compared to around 75% in Yorkshire & Humber, the South West and Scotland.
The figures also indicate reduced adoption among older workers, with 40% of decision-makers aged 55 and over not using AI, compared to just 8% of 18-34 year olds.
Citing benefits such as saving time, reducing errors, and reducing costs, OpenAI says workers can reinvest those 5.2 weekly hours into creative thinking, strategic planning, and product improvement, but more needs to be done to encourage AI use among non- adopters.
A joint effort between the creator of ChatGPT, Booking.com and Enterprise Nation makes it clear that exposure and experimentation are key, with the London-based program offering hands-on training, demonstrations and peer learning opportunities. However, with adoption at its highest level in London, the company could do better by expanding to other regions.
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