ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, CYBER SECURITY MEASURES AND SME’S E-OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY: MODERATING ROLE OF EMPLOYEES PERCEPTION OF AI USEFULNESS

Abstract

This study endeavours to elucidate the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption on enterprise packages within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) while delineating the factors that contribute to e-operational performance. A cohort of 235 employees was selected from a range of SMEs engaged in active E-business endeavours. Utilizing statistical analyses such as regression analysis and moderation assessment, the study seeks to examine the interrelationships among these variables and assess the anticipated moderating effects. The study's findings unveil substantial associations between AI adoption, employee readiness, cybersecurity measures, technological infrastructure, and E-operational efficiency within SMEs. Firstly, there exists a robust correlation between AI adoption and E-operational performance, signifying that SMEs integrating AI technologies witness enhancements in operational effectiveness. Secondly, the proficiency of employees in utilizing AI tools plays a pivotal role in augmenting E-operational efficiency, indicating that adeptness in AI application among employees contributes significantly to the efficacy of AI implementation. Thirdly, cybersecurity measures and technological infrastructure exhibit positive impacts on E-operational efficiency, underscoring the pivotal role of robust security protocols and state-of-the-art technology infrastructure in enhancing operational effectiveness. Furthermore, the study identifies the moderating influence of employee perceptions regarding the utility of AI on these relationships, emphasizing the significance of organizational culture and employee attitudes towards AI adoption. This research offers empirical evidence supporting the favourable impact of AI adoption on e-operational efficiency within SMEs. It underscores the importance of considering employee readiness, cybersecurity measures, and technology infrastructure in the successful integration of AI technologies. Moreover, the findings highlight the necessity of cultivating a supportive organizational culture that fosters positive perceptions of AI usefulness among employees.