AI-Integration

AI Adoption Snapshot in U.S. Businesses

The latest U.S. Census Bureau survey reveals that despite the widespread buzz around artificial intelligence (AI), its adoption by businesses remains limited. Only 3.8% of businesses reported using AI to produce goods and services, according to the Business Trends and Outlook Survey (BTOS). However, the technology is more prevalent in certain industries such as information and tech sectors, where 13.8% of businesses are currently utilizing AI.

The BTOS, which provides a bi-weekly snapshot of AI use by businesses, defines AI as computer systems and software capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. Notably, businesses in the Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services sector also reported a substantial AI adoption rate of 9.1%.

In contrast, some sectors, like Accommodation and Food Services, lag behind, with only 1.2% of businesses using AI. However, attitudes toward future AI adoption signal a shift, with 6.5% of businesses nationally planning to incorporate AI in the next six months. This trend is consistent across various sectors, indicating a potential increase in AI adoption.

The findings align with the 2019 Annual Business Survey, which reported a 3.2% AI adoption rate among U.S. businesses in 2018. The survey will continue to track AI use, with additional questions aimed at gaining insights into the specific types of AI used, its impact on employment, and how it influences organizational structure. The data collected will help gauge whether expectations of increased AI adoption in the future will materialize.