Only a Third of Companies in Serbia Use Artificial Intelligence in Business
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Loading... - Farida Jabrane
- 06 Feb 2025
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A recent study conducted by ICT Hub in collaboration with the Serbian Association of Managers (SAM) and Represent Communications reveals that only 34% of companies in Serbia are currently utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in their operations. This research, which surveyed 157 companies across various sizes and industries, highlights the current state of AI adoption in the country, identifying both obstacles and opportunities for growth.
The study indicates that companies employing AI report significant benefits, including an 87% increase in operational efficiency and an 83% improvement in product and service quality. The highest adoption rates are found in the information, communications, and professional services sectors, where 60% of firms utilize AI technologies. However, the manufacturing sector shows surprisingly low adoption, suggesting a lack of automation and digitalization despite its potential for growth.
The research highlights that larger companies are leading the way in AI adoption, with 85% having a formalized AI strategy compared to only 27.9% of small enterprises. Among medium-sized companies, 74% have adopted a strategic approach. The findings suggest that the number of employees and operational complexity are more significant factors in determining a company's approach to AI than annual revenue.
Despite the potential benefits, many companies face challenges in integrating AI. The most common obstacles include data quality issues, difficulties in integrating AI solutions with existing systems, and a lack of skilled personnel in areas like machine learning and data analytics. Interestingly, financial constraints do not appear to be a major barrier, as many companies are willing to invest in AI and the associated talent.
The study also reveals that only 20% of companies have organized or plan to organize AI training, indicating a lack of preparedness to invest in human resource development. Companies with a strategic approach to AI tend to have established procedures, leading to more efficient resource use and better implementation outcomes.
AI adoption in Serbian businesses remains relatively low, primarily concentrated in large and medium-sized enterprises, particularly within the ICT and professional sectors. The future of AI in Serbia will depend on strategic investments and enhanced collaboration within the ecosystem, positioning AI as a crucial tool for competitiveness and innovation across all industries. As companies continue to explore AI's potential, the focus will likely shift towards overcoming existing challenges and maximizing the technology's benefits for improved decision-making and operational efficiency.
