This study investigates opportunities to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Johannesburg, South Africa, focusing on employees’ perspectives on current practices, potential benefits, and adoption challenges. Using a quantitative research design, data was collected from 172 respondents through an online questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. The instrument consisted of sections on respondent demographics, current AI practices, and perceived potential uses of AI in SME operations. Descriptive statistical analysis was applied, and reliability testing using Cronbach’s Alpha yielded an average score of 0.900, confirming strong internal consistency. The findings reveal growing awareness of AI among employees, with positive perceptions of its potential to enhance operational efficiency, support data-driven decision-making, optimise maintenance schedules, and improve competitiveness. However, adoption remains limited due to challenges such as skills shortages, resource constraints, and uncertainty about AI applications. Respondents highlighted the importance of practical strategies, including machine learning techniques, predictive maintenance, and service diagnostics, to enable successful implementation. The study concludes that while AI offers significant opportunities for improving SME performance, training, capacity-building, and context-specific strategies are essential to support broader adoption. Recommendations are provided to guide SMEs and policymakers toward enabling sustainable AI integration.

Keywords

AI adoption, Artificial Intelligence, SMEs and South Africa