Hiscox Just over a quarter of small businesses use AI

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Hiscox, a specialist global insurer, has launched its The Hiscox Report on People and Programs. The survey suggests that small businesses are interested in using artificial intelligence in their internal operations.

Laila Gillies, chief of staff at Hiscox USA, said in a statement: “The topic dominating headlines and minds around the world right now is AI. What does this mean for our business, our people and where it can add value”.

Just over a quarter, 26% of respondents said they are currently using AI and 75% said they plan to implement the technology in the next two years. Small businesses are using AI in email software and online distribution channels.

Gillies said: “This research shows that small businesses are more than engaged in the conversation; they have already identified where AI can benefit, but most importantly, where the human connection matters most. Small businesses are the guardians of our local communities, and perhaps our humanity.”

The survey was conducted online by Wakefield Research and included responses from 1,000 U.S. small business owners with between one and 50 employees.

Other findings to note:

• Seventy-one percent of small businesses see remote work as a productive use of their employees’ time.
• Forty-nine percent of small businesses recruit employees through word of mouth.
• Four out of five small business owners trust AI to be accurate.

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