| Abstract [eng] |
The thesis examines how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can successfully apply artificial intelligence (AI) solutions into their business processes. Despite the rapid development of AI technologies, governmental initiatives, and other incentives, SMEs still encounter significant challenges when incorporating these technologies. A substantial gap persists between SMEs and large corporations in AI uptake: larger firms integrate new technologies much faster and, as a result, achieve higher added value more quickly. Consequently, there is a need to understand these differences and help SMEs systematically assess the prerequisites for AI deployment so they can apply the technology more purposefully and effectively in their operations. During the literature review, six core dimensions were identified: strategic preparedness, technological resources and infrastructure, competence development, ethics and responsibility, financial resources and organizational management. Based on these dimensions and after analyzing existing frameworks, a framework of preconditions for the application of AI in business processes of SMEs was created. The framework was empirically validated through a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with SME managers. The collected data confirmed the relevance of all six dimensions and highlighted those that are of the most importance. Although no new dimensions emerged, the research enriched the framework with practical insights. |
