Exploring Factors for Successful Adoption of (Generative) AI Pilots in Productive Settings

Background

As Generative AI continues to advance, organizations across various sectors are increasingly exploring its potential through pilot projects and proof-of-concept (POC) implementations. However, despite the promising outlook of AI technologies, most organizations struggle to move beyond the pilot phase and achieve large-scale adoption. According to Forbes (2024), approximately 90% of AI proof of concepts will not move into production in the near future, and some may never move into production. This staggering statistic underscores the critical challenge many organizations face: translating AI experimentation into sustained and impactful use in production and usage. This thesis aims to investigate the underlying factors that separate successful AI pilots from those that fail to scale. What are the key technical, cultural, and strategic elements that allows (Gen)AI pilots to reach production level?

In this thesis you will:

  • Conduct a structured literature reviews on technology adoption, focusing on AI and GenAI.

  • Perform expert interviews with industry professionals, technology experts, and stakeholders involved in GenAI initiatives.

  • Identify critical organizational, technical, and human factors that influence the adoption of (Gen)AI and analyze barriers and enablers in the transition from pilot to productive implementation.

Details

  • Start: Immediately
  • Duration: 6 months
  • Language: preferrably English (German language skills will help when conducting interviews)

How to Apply

We offer you a challenging research topic, close supervision, and the opportunity to develop practical as well as theoretical skills. If you are interested, please send a current transcript of records, a short CV, and a brief motivation (2-3 sentences) to Daniel Hendriks and Carina Benz:

References

Forbes (2024): Reasons Why Generative AI Pilots Fail To Move Into Production, Online: https://www.forbes.com/sites/peterbendorsamuel/2024/01/08/reasons-why-generative-ai-pilots-fail-to-move-into-production/