The rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked debates among businesses, but a recent survey has unveiled a surprising twist. Companies preparing for AI disruption are feeling more optimistic about their prospects in 2024.
According to a survey by Startups.co.uk, a mere 2% of UK companies anticipating a high level of AI disruption express pessimism about their growth prospects for the year ahead. In contrast, 32% of businesses expecting no AI disruption exhibit a negative outlook for their future. Engaging with AI technologies may hold the key to business success in 2024.
Prioritizing AI investment:
The survey also reveals that 14% of respondents believe that investing in AI should be their top priority in 2024. This recognition of AI’s potential to provide a competitive edge and navigate a volatile economic landscape reflects a growing trend among businesses.
Despite the potential benefits of AI, some businesses have been cautious about fully integrating AI tools, such as Google Duet and Microsoft CoPilot, into their operations. This caution is often attributed to a lack of familiarity with AI software, which has slowed down adoption in certain sectors.
Industries lagging in digitalization:
Industries less digitally advanced, such as hospitality and food production, have been less inclined to view AI investment as a priority. In these sectors, diversifying income streams has taken precedence over embracing digitalization. As a result, AI investment ranks lower on their to-do lists.
AI Prioritization by Industry:
The survey highlights that tech and finance, including fintech, are the two industry groups most likely to prioritize AI investment and adoption in 2024. Over one-fifth of organizations in these sectors consider artificial intelligence their main focus for the next 12 months, surpassing other critical needs like financial backing and workforce expansion.
Industry Focus on AI Investment in 2024:
– Healthcare and Life Sciences: 15%
– Creative Arts and Media: 12%
– Manufacturing and Engineering: 15%
– Finance and Fintech: 20%
– Leisure: 0%
– Hospitality and Tourism: 9%
– E-commerce and Retail: 15%
– Education: 0%
– Agriculture and Food Production: 5%
– Technology and Software: 23%
– Construction: 0%
– Energy and Sustainability: 13%
– Professional Services: 15%
AI investment lag in leisure and education
Leisure and educational organizations rank AI investment at the bottom of their priority lists. In these sectors, 57% of firms believe that AI will not disrupt their current operations in 2024, among the highest percentages across all industries analyzed. Financial stability and diversifying income streams take precedence over digitalization efforts.
While a healthy dose of skepticism can be beneficial, especially in investment decisions, AI presents an opportunity for businesses to address significant challenges. In an era of perpetual crisis, artificial intelligence could hold the key to overcoming some of the most pressing issues companies face today.
Untapped potential in hospitality
In the hospitality sector, where only 9% of firms prioritize AI investment, automation has the potential to alleviate service errors caused by labor shortages, improving the speed and accuracy of orders. Embracing AI could be the solution to enhancing customer experiences in this industry.
Educational startup YouMakr.ai’s recognition as a top startup for 2024 suggests that generative AI tools will play a prominent role in personalizing learning experiences. This demonstrates the expanding role of AI in education and the potential for improving educational outcomes.
One year since the launch of ChatGPT, businesses appear to be adjusting to the presence of AI software. By proactively embracing AI technology, UK companies can approach the challenges and opportunities of 2024 with a sense of optimism and adaptability.
