UK product developers and engineers are adopting artificial intelligence (AI) at a slower pace compared to their European counterparts, according to new research by digital manufacturer Protolabs.
The survey of 392 manufacturers, engineers, and product developers revealed that less than 40% of UK respondents plan to implement AI technology within their businesses. This is significantly lower than the 71% of French, 50% of Germans, and 44% of Italians who have similar plans.
This cautious approach contrasts with UK businesses’ optimism about AI’s potential. Over 70% of UK respondents believe the benefits of AI outweigh the risks, compared to only 53% of French respondents.
The survey also found that more than four in five French (81%) and Italians (82%) anticipate AI will significantly impact their industry within the next five years, while only 67% of UK respondents and 71% of Germans share this outlook.
The research, part of a larger project with FT Longitude, includes interviews with leading experts and futurologists on key topics affecting manufacturing in 2024 and beyond. These insights will be featured in a series of three audio presentations, starting with AI’s impact and the challenges businesses face when deploying this technology.
Bjoern Klaas, managing director and vice president EMEA at Protolabs, noted, “We work with businesses across Europe that are deploying cutting-edge manufacturing and design techniques and technologies, which currently includes AI. One of the challenges many face is that their data or processes are not yet ready for them to make the most of AI implementations. Hence, they risk wasting time and resources on something that may not bring the expected rewards.”
Klaas added that while UK manufacturers might appear to be lagging, this could be a strategic choice. “Many manufacturers need to take one step backwards in order to go two forwards. Though they foresee great opportunities with the technology, they may simply be taking a more cautious approach. In fact, the experts we have been speaking to are advocating this, advising businesses to ensure their strategy and planning are in place first.”
These findings will be further explored in Protolabs’ Real Talk webinar series, featuring interviews with experts like Aric Dromi, a strategist and former chief futurologist at Volvo, and Umbar Shakir, a partner at business and digital transformation consultancy Gate One.