CLSBE - Dissertações de Mestrado / Master Dissertations
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- Adoption of AI tools in software development in Germany : curse or blessing for the SME sector?Publication . Blischke, Robin; Rajsingh, PeterThis study investigated the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in Germany's software development sector, focusing on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). AI technologies are reshaping the industry, presenting opportunities and challenges. Using a mixed-methods approach, including 14 expert interviews and a survey of 262 participants, the research identified key factors affected by AI adoption, such as efficiency gains, code quality, competitive pressure, security risks, organizational readiness, technical debt, and ethical concerns. These factors were identified through a literature review, tested via expert interviews, and validated through a survey, adhering to the principle of triangulation. Currently, AI adoption in German SMEs remains in its infancy, primarily focused on enhancing productivity in routine tasks, with strategic integration still limited. Expert insights highlighted SMEs' agility in deploying off-the-shelf AI tools but noted constraints from limited resources and technical expertise. In contrast, large enterprises (LEs) leverage robust infrastructure and R&D investments for more comprehensive AI integration. While AI tools were viewed as an efficiency innovation, findings indicated their disruptive potential to democratize coding, bridge skill gaps, and drive long-term transformations. However, systemic barriers, including security vulnerabilities, ethical dilemmas, and insufficient organizational readiness, continue to hinder widespread adoption. By integrating dynamic capabilities and innovation theories, this research extrapolated AI’s trajectory from incremental efficiency gains to disruptive innovation, fundamentally altering workflows and competitive dynamics. The study offers actionable recommendations to foster readiness, address ethical and security concerns, and promote targeted upskilling for a transformative future.