Large numbers of Queensland businesses are caught in a “tech fog” as they grapple with ever-advancing technology such as the new wave of artificial intelligence.
The just-released Business Chamber Queensland Digital Future of Work report says a third of the state’s businesses are struggling to keep up with technology.
Only one in five businesses surveyed say they have either a good or expert understanding of the role of AI in business and 57 percent reported a strong or critical need for new skills and training to deal with the AI transition.
More than one in five businesses (22 percent) say they experience poor internet connectivity very often.
Business Chamber Queensland CEO Heidi Cooper said businesses were saying they were eager to embrace technology, but internet connectivity, cyber security and skills gaps meant some were falling behind.
“Businesses who are already utilising the benefits of technology are driving competitiveness and maximising opportunities,” she said.
“However, others still need support to understand where the opportunities and risks exist in navigating the evolving tech and digital landscape.”
The findings are based on a survey of hundreds of businesses across the state.
The survey, supported by the Australian Retirement Trust, found that, while AI and other technologies presented a major opportunity for Queensland businesses, many were stuck navigating digital challenges.
These challenges included poor internet connectivity, changing workforce skill requirements and a rise in cyber attacks.
“We heard from business that they feel like they are in a ‘tech fog’ and it is hard to know where to get support that is fit for purpose for their business,” Ms Cooper said
In the past 12 months, 15 percent of businesses had experienced a cyber security attack. More than half of these were small businesses.
More than half of all businesses surveyed indicated a need for updated staff training in cyber security and 28 percent of businesses saw a need to change task descriptions and job requirements in existing roles.
The data indicated businesses were generally planning to evolve and retain current workforces in response to digital needs, rather than replacing existing jobs.
Queensland small business owner and Founder of Social Mediology and The AI Success Lab, Kate vanderVoort said many businesses had been using AI unknowingly for years, but it was now easily accessible for every business, across every function.
“It’s not just available for those with big budgets. The new AI platforms and tools available mean even the smallest of businesses can see massive productivity gains with very little tech expertise,” Ms vanderVoort said.
“Those who adopt it will leapfrog to the front of their business category and be able to do twice as much in half the time.”
