A new Eurobarometer survey, shared by SAPO TeK, reveals that 42% of small and medium-sized enterprises and mid-cap companies in Europe have already integrated artificial intelligence and algorithmic management solutions into their daily routines. Although this figure demonstrates a significant presence of the technology, its use remains, in most cases, at a limited and experimental level.
What are the main obstacles for companies?
Despite the desire to innovate, implementation faces clear financial and structural barriers. According to data from SAPO TeK, 50% of companies point to high investment costs as the primary deterrent. Legal uncertainty, mentioned by 49% of respondents, and a lack of specialized knowledge, at 48%, round out the top challenges hindering more widespread adoption.
Where is artificial intelligence being applied?
The technology is primarily focused on customer relations. According to the survey, 47% of organizations use AI in customer service and support. Monitoring employee productivity and performance follows closely at 36%, while logistics and scheduling account for 30% of practical applications. The role of AI in decision support is also significant: 61% of companies state they use it for this purpose, although 52% of these admit that the technology only suggests paths, leaving the final decision in human hands.
The impact on employment and tech talent in Portugal
There is optimism regarding the future of the job market. About 75% of the companies surveyed believe that artificial intelligence will improve the quality of employment, with 16% classifying this outlook as very positive. However, the shortage of specialized skills remains a critical point. For tech talent in Portugal and Brazil, this market dynamic suggests that the demand will not just be for pure technical ability, but for the aptitude to integrate these tools into real workflows where human supervision remains the control element. What remains to be seen is how companies will balance the necessary investment with the urgency of upskilling their internal teams to handle these demands.
