Many Swiss SMEs have begun to integrate artificial intelligence into their processes. However, very few have developed an overarching strategy to systematically address both the opportunities and risks that AI brings. As a rule, SMEs cannot create such strategies on their own – they need external expertise. To help SMEs find suitable partners for their AI projects, the Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences SATW has joined forces with numerous partner organisations to develop SAIROP, a platform providing an overview of key AI players in Switzerland.
Recent studies show that more than half of all Swiss SMEs are already integrating artificial intelligence into their work processes. Is this a positive development?
Generally speaking, it's encouraging to see Swiss SMEs actively engaging with artificial intelligence and experimenting with these technologies. However, we should treat such findings with caution. Since our understanding of AI varies greatly, these kinds of statements can only be generalised to a limited extent. For example, countless generative AI applications are easily accessible online today, but these represent only a small part of available AI technologies. There is still enormous potential – especially in applications that attract less media attention.
Because of the hype surrounding AI, some companies might see it as merely a selling point. However, AI isn't an ingredient you can simply add to make a good product better. Rather, you must always focus on how using AI specifically adds value – whether by optimising internal processes or offering customers enhanced services.
So when and where should SMEs use artificial intelligence?
There's no universal answer to this question. Many generative and widely applicable AI tools, such as ChatGPT or other language assistants, can be integrated into existing processes with minimal effort and create immediate value. We highlight more examples in our practical guide. These range from supporting decision-making processes to optimising production, logistics and quality control, and to improving entire processes. Which AI tools will suit an SME best depends entirely on the company’s individual business needs.
It's worth noting that implementing these AI solutions can be complex, depending on the circumstances. More often than not, complex problems don't have ready-made solutions that can be easily implemented. In such situations, introducing AI can be challenging.
What are these challenges?
One overarching difficulty is the speed with which AI is developing. SMEs usually don't have enough time to keep up-to-date and properly assess how AI might benefit their company. This makes it difficult for them even to identify where they could usefully apply AI.
Other challenges stem from inexperience with AI applications. Employees may worry about AI taking their jobs. Or they might overestimate what AI can do and trust it blindly, instead of questioning its predictions critically. However, we still need people who think for themselves, because no AI is infallible and complete automation is rarely feasible. This makes it all the more important for employees to understand and manage AI's technical limitations.
Our practical guide explains how SMEs can tackle these various challenges. However, most SMEs won't be able to implement our suggested solutions on their own. Fortunately, Switzerland has numerous research groups and service providers with excellent AI expertise. In such situations, it's worth investing in your own network and building lasting partnerships.
How and where can SMEs find suitable and trustworthy partners?
Given how fragmented the AI landscape is in Switzerland, SMEs often struggle to find reliable information and identify suitable partners. This is precisely where the Swiss AI platform SAIROP helps. It offers a comprehensive overview of the range of AI players across Switzerland. SMEs can find potential research collaborators and service providers who can support their AI initiatives. Organisations on SAIROP showcase their expertise through completed projects and available services – ranging from joint innovation ventures and consultancy to workshops, professional development and funding opportunities. The platform also lists AI events where SMEs can learn more and build valuable connections.
What is the aim of SAIROP, and how is the platform organised?
SAIROP primarily aims to champion responsible AI use throughout Switzerland. Collaboration forms the cornerstone of this initiative – the participating organisations firmly believe that by working together, they can better tackle AI challenges and harness its opportunities. A key aspect involves sharing practical AI experiences and making specialist knowledge more widely accessible. SAIROP partners meet regularly to exchange ideas and address shared concerns, with supporting SMEs on their AI journey as a top priority. This focus has already resulted in this practical guide and factsheet, with more in-depth articles on specific topics and targeted events in development. For companies with specific queries or those seeking partners, both the SATW and SAIROP partners are eager to help or connect them with relevant contacts from our extensive network.
