Initial situation/policy problem
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expected to have a significant impact on the labour market due to its wide range of economic applications. AI is widely recognised as having the potential to both replace workers and skilled employees and create new jobs and work fields. In addition, AI is associated with the hope of better integrating people with disabilities into the labour market. As a consequence, AI presents an opportunity for Mittelstand enterprises to address the growing shortages of skilled labour, which are further aggravated by demographic change. However, little is currently known about whether and how Mittelstand enterprises are actually taking advantage of the new opportunities offered by AI.
Research goals/approach
The aim of this project is to identify strategies and measures which Mittelstand enterprises apply to make use of AI. The research seeks to determine the extent to which AI is being utilised to substitute workers and skilled employees, enhance the productivity of available employees, or to tap more efficiently the pool of skilled employees (e.g., women, refugees, seniors, or individuals with disabilities). Furthermore, the project aims to identify barriers and risks that hinder the effective use of AI in businesses. The research questions will be addressed through a systematic literature review on the one hand and interviews with experts and companies on the other.