NEW YORK -- As the use of artificial intelligence is expands, more small firms say they're harnessing AI to help their businesses.In a survey by The U.S.Chamber of Commerce and Teneo, nearly every small business — 98% — said they are utilizing a tool that is enabled by AI.
Forty percent said they're using generative AI tools like chatbots and image creation, nearly double from last year's survey.Small business owners say finding the right AI tools helps them save on personnel costs and frees up time.
But they also stress that human oversight is still a necessity.“AI allows small businesses — who many times do not have the staff or resources of their competitors — to punch above their weight,” said Jordan Crenshaw, senior vice president of the U.S.Chamber’s Technology Engagement Center.
“It’s encouraging to see small businesses embrace technology and express optimism for the future as these platforms serve as a catalyst for innovation and resilience.”Randy Speckman, who owns San Diego-based web design agency Randy Speckman Design with seven staffers, found the right AI tool for his business by trial and error.He tried a few tools that didn't provide high enough quality copy before settling on tools including Conversion.ai and Copy.ai to generate blog posts, email newsletters and social media content.The tools save Speckman's staff a lot of time while allowing for a consistent volume of higher quality content.
The improvement in production means he hasn't had to hire more writers."The only downside is needing to review and tweak the AI’s initial drafts,” Speckman said.
The survey also found that 91% of small businesses using AI say it will help their business grow in the future.Seventy-seven percent of small business owners said they plan to adopt emerging technologies, including AI and metaverse.
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