A newly announced AI Chamber study reveals an ambiguous but dynamic implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) between more than 3,200 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in eleven Eastern and Central European countries. The study shows that over 75 percent of SMEs are already applying AI measures, but only a quarter does so widely by integrating AI into broader business processes. This is also notably important for Lithuania, where SMEs consist of the spine of the economy, but the implementation of technology is often limited to individual initiatives.
The study, called “How Eastern and Central European SMEs Behave in the World of Artificial Intelligence?” identifies the main areas where AI currently applies: data analysis (40 percent), automatic translation (35 percent) and task automation (28 percent). These use cases show that AI is more helpful to optimize daily operations than to create a strategic advantage.
“This study denies the widespread view that AI installation is only a matter of availability of technology. The decisive factor is organizational maturity – clear leadership, prepared talents and strategic attitude,” says Tomasz Snažyk, AI Chamber CEO.”Central and eastern European SMEs can become global applied AI leaders – if supported with proper regulatory measures and education initiatives. The possibility is real. The risk is also left behind.”
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The study reveals the connection between the size of the company and its AI preparation. Companies with 50-250 employees are much more inclined to implement more advanced AI solutions – as many as half of the most informed companies belong to this category. This indicates that structural maturity and human resources are critical success factors. Meanwhile, the micro-accounts (up to 10 employees), including Lithuania, often remain aside.
Employee initiative is also growing: 61 percent of the region’s employees are actively looking for ways to apply AI in their work – this number is particularly high in Poland and the Czech Republic. This means that even if managers are not yet ready to systematically apply AI, employees are already promoting changes from the inside.
Legal preparation for Lithuania is Important to Lithuania
Despite the enthusiasm, the preparation for the EU AI regulation (Act) remains low – only 8 percent of all surveyed SMEs said they were ready for a possible audit. This is also a challenge for Lithuania – especially knowing that the future regulation will take effect in the coming years and obliges businesses to comply with strict openness and security standards.
“The Central and Eastern european region has now opened a window to define its digital future – but it will not be open forever. The question that both government and investors and SMEs themselves have to deal with are no longer or worth accepting AI,” says Tomasz Snažyk.
Incoming Lithuania: From Experimentation to Strategy
In Lithuania,
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