AND Digital launches AI Adoption Accelerator to boost operational efficiency for SMEs amid skills crisis

The programme helped each business save £26,000 annually and saved each staff member 7 hours per week.

AND Digital and Tech West Midlands have completed an AI Adoption Accelerator to lower the barrier of entry to AI adoption for small and medium-sized enterprises to equip them with the tools needed to start their AI journey in an attempt to close the AI skills gap.

According to research conducted by AND Digital, 62% of CEOs believe that moving too slowly on AI poses a greater risk than moving swiftly, while 44% of leaders feel management teams are severely under-prepared to tackle AI.
 
SMEs adopting AI offers transformative potential but is seen as a steep climb due to concerns over skills shortages.
 
The AI Adoption Accelerator is directly addressing this challenge. Designed to break down the barriers to AI adoption, the 12-week Accelerator equips businesses with foundational knowledge, practical tools and hands-on mentoring to empower businesses to embed AI solutions into their practices to drive productivity and growth.
 
Through the use of the accelerator programme, businesses achieved significant operational efficiencies, translating into real, measurable benefits.
 
Seven hours each week were saved per staff member due to operational efficiencies leading to a substantial boost in productivity across teams and an annual cost savings of £26,000 per company, directly impacting production and administrative expenses.
 
90% of those who attended the programme rated it as excellent/good and 100% agree they understand the responsible use of AI and good data infrastructure.
 
Bradley Quinn, Managing Consultant from AND Digital, who led the programme, said: “AI is one of the most transformative technologies of our time and for SMEs, it represents an opportunity to boost productivity and drive growth. However, many smaller businesses face real challenges in implementing AI from skills shortages to concerns over cost.”
 
Through the AI Adoption Accelerator, we’re breaking down these barriers by providing hands-on support that SMEs can use immediately and build upon. We’re thrilled to see the businesses that took part not only saving time and costs but also developing a lasting confidence in using AI responsibly and effectively. 

This is about them taking a people AND innovation approach and setting them on a path to thrive in this era of AI.”

AND Digital is on a mission to close the world’s digital skills gap. Its award-winning approach to talent development makes it the go-to digital partner for some of the world’s most renowned organisations. 

By working collaboratively; AND Digital helps you deliver value faster today, and strengthen your in-house capabilities for independence tomorrow.
 
With an ever-growing team of experts, AND guides a diverse range of organisations to digital independence. Its unique model sees it ‘Guide, Build and Equip’ the likes of British Airways, Nie, Sky and Subway; giving them the critical skills they need for a successful future.