Still basic use
But what AI are we talking about exactly? A fairly basic AI, a priori. The top three applications are information retrieval (58%), external content creation (57%) and internal content generation (54%). Small businesses primarily use AI to create external content such as advertisements and marketing materials. On the other hand, large companies (more than 250 employees) use AI more frequently for internal content generation, such as emails, and for chatbots.
These are the beginnings for the moment, but problems have already been identified. Thus, there are significant barriers to AI adoption. According to the study, around 40% of companies that do not adopt AI cite lack of knowledge and skills, as well as insufficient internal resources, as their main challenges. At the same time, the main concerns related to AI relate to data security (59%), as well as the ethical and social consequences of AI (38%).
Everything you need to know before starting ChatGPT
Published on November 29, 2024 at 11:49 p.m.
How to use ChatGPT correctly? What is the difference between the models? How to customize ChatGPT? The most widely used generative AI service on the planet has evolved significantly in recent months.
Here is the article to (re-)read before launching your first prompt
-State support
And the majority of companies surveyed express a need for assistance in adopting this AI. Thus, 60% of companies would like the canton to help them adopt AI, mainly through educational programs (70%) and collaborative platforms for the exchange of know-how (55%).
This request is welcomed positively by Delphine Bachmann, State Councilor in charge of Economy and Employment. Contacted by Timeshe affirms that this “reassures her in the idea that the State must support SMEs in their various transitions and in particular the digital transition, of which AI is now an integral part. This has always been my belief. Thus, we have a range of services that we make available to businesses free of charge. Our guides and training, online or in person, cover the main themes related to the digitalization of businesses. They have had great success, proof that we are responding to a real need.”
The role of the authorities?
Certainly. But isn’t it up to the private sector to manage, or with the help of the umbrella organizations? Should the State really help SMEs with AI? “This question concerns the role of the State in a liberal economy,” answers Delphine Bachmann. For me, its role is clear: to be able to support companies that express the need, as my department does, particularly during major transitions. This need for support is particularly marked in small structures.”
We therefore understand that this report also allows the authorities to highlight what they are already doing for SMEs. And this is only the beginning, according to the State Councilor. “It’s about strengthening the existing system and developing it. We will extend our training to new themes, such as cyber risks, which are the main concern of entrepreneurs in terms of AI. We will also encourage them to adopt a charter for the use of AI, by offering them a model based on the internal one of the State of Geneva which they will then be able to adapt to their specific use of these tools. Delphine Bachmann also cites the upcoming launch of a platform which will bring together all the information and resources necessary for companies to get their AI integration projects off to a good start, as well as concrete use cases.
