Abstract

A convergence of factors enabled unprecedented advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI). For example, new techniques known as Machine Learning (ML) allow an algorithm to learn from data without needing any prior programming. Thus, a new wave of automation has targeted activities performed by trained humans because they depend on elaborated cognitive processes. Therefore, a considerable magnitude of the impacts of AI is expected in society, organizations, and businesses. Among other impacts, it is estimated that changes will occur in business models, economic mechanisms, management, productivity, and the nature of the work that could put at risk 47% of jobs in the US and nearly 80% in developing countries. Such implications and opportunities have been little discussed in academia. Paradoxically, the shortage in research is even more pronounced in small businesses, which are vital for countries’ economies. They accounted for around 99% of the business, 60% of jobs, and 27% of GDP in Brazil in 2017. Thus, to contribute to this debate, the present research's main goal was to identify the factors influencing the intention of adopting IA-based information systems in small companies in Brazil. Qualitative research was executed with 43 participants and identified 9 factors influencing the adoption intention (performance expectancy, business model, effort expectancy, self-efficacy, trust, business compatibility, social influence, trial ability, and technical support). Therefore, the present study helps reduce the gap in studies related to technology adoption in small businesses and AI-based technologies in companies, supporting academics and managers in future investigations and decision-making.

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