Research Paper
The State of AI in Northern Ireland Businesses Report: Adoption, Barriers and Strategic Impact
Exclusive research from GCD, in partnership with the Institute of Directors NI, reveals how organisations across Northern Ireland are adopting AI, the barriers they face and the impact it is already making.
NI companies using AI strategically see clear business gains
GCD, in partnership with the Institute of Directors NI, has published the State of AI in Northern Ireland Businesses – a survey of how organisations across the region are adopting AI. With data collection undertaken by Cognisense, the study captured insights from 200 businesses with 20+ employees, providing the most detailed picture to date of AI adoption, barriers and impact.
The report finds that just 19% of companies currently use AI, though almost half (48%) are planning or open to adoption. Among current adopters, fewer than four in ten (39%) are using AI strategically. Strategic adopters, however, report strong results, with 86% seeing efficiency gains, 71% improved customer experience and 58% revenue growth.
Key findings
19%
of NI businesses using AI
39%
of AI adopters using strategically
86%
of strategic adopters reporting efficiency gains
71%
of strategic adopters reporting improved customer experience
58%
of strategic adopters reporting revenue growth
41%
cite lack of knowledge as main barrier to adoption
What’s inside the report
AI Adoption & Perceived Benefits: where are NI businesses on their AI journey and what benefits do they expect from adoption?
Strategic Use & Impact: how are early adopters putting AI to work and what measurable impact are they seeing?
Challenges & Skills Gap: what internal hurdles around culture and skills are slowing progress?
Barriers to Adoption: what is holding so many businesses back from AI adoption?
Preparations & Future Outlook: how do businesses expect AI to impact their sectors over the next 5 years and what steps are they taking now to prepare?
Conclusion & Recommendations: what must NI businesses prioritise to scale AI adoption and unlock long term ROI?
Produced in partnership with
Access the full findings, detailed charts and expert commentary.
Insights from GCD
Andrew Gough, Managing Director of GCD, introduces our new research on AI adoption in Northern Ireland. Watch as Andrew outlines the key themes uncovered and why businesses need to act now to capture the opportunities AI presents.
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