Only one in ten finance professionals in SMEs say they have a lot of knowledge about AI.

Visma research shows a significant gap in artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and knowledge between SMEs and large companies in the Netherlands and Flanders. At SMBs, only 17 percent of finance professionals say they see the benefits of AI for improved forecasting and decision-making, while this percentage is significantly higher at large enterprises.

The research shows that only one in ten (9%) of finance professionals at SMBs say they have extensive AI knowledge, compared to half (51%) at large companies. This lack of knowledge leads to higher levels of distrust of AI among SMBs: 73 percent would not trust AI with a business process, compared to 33 percent among large companies.

Despite the mistrust and knowledge gap, a majority (72%) of professionals surveyed recognize that AI tools can provide benefits in the workplace, particularly by automating repetitive tasks. Among SMEs, 41 percent see AI as a useful tool for this, while only half of large companies see it (49 percent).

Call for more knowledge and acceptance

Heiko Bonenkamp, ​​​​Business Area Director Benelux at Visma: “It is clear that the unknown is still unloved. However, AI can advance companies. By automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks, you can focus on other core business tasks. And that’s exactly what can help medium-sized businesses continue to grow.”

“It is important that financial professionals become more educated about the AI ​​tools that exist today. In this way, they not only learn about the dangers and pitfalls that AI brings, but also its positive effects. If we learn to use AI correctly, it will above all save time and efficiency. And every company benefits from this.”