Support aims to drive adoption of AI technology – Daily Business

Edinburgh Trams has introduced a wearable fatigue monitoring device that uses artificial intelligence to improve driver safety.

The tram company developed the device with local tech consultancy Integrated Human Factors and it was put to the test by Business Minister Richard Lochhead as part of a programme to encourage wider adoption of AI.

Almost £1 million has been committed to the programme that will be delivered by Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and South of Scotland Enterprise – together with The Data Lab and the Scottish AI Alliance.

The Minister said: “Artificial intelligence is a hugely powerful, rapidly-evolving tool that can support and drive our economy. It can enable businesses to work smarter, to innovate and empower and support its workforces.

“The project being developed by Integrated Human Factors and Edinburgh Trams is a great example of this.

“This national programme will help ensure SMEs across the country have the right support and guidance in place to explore and develop how the adoption of AI could support expansion, competitiveness and open new markets. I’d urge all businesses to find out more about the support and guidance now available to them.

“The programme also marks an important first step in establishing AI Scotland, a true partnership bringing together expertise from across the public and private sectors to help ensure our economy, and indeed our society, is well placed to harness AI as a tool for economic growth and a force for good across society.”

Managing director of productivity & business growth at Scottish Enterprise Rhona Allison said: “The potential for AI to drive efficiency and productivity gains and increase companies’ competitiveness is immense.

“Yet research shows that three-quarters of Scottish SMEs aren’t using any AI technologies and don’t have plans to adopt AI in the short term.

“We understand that businesses might be finding it difficult knowing where to start on AI adoption.

“That’s why the delivery partners have drawn on their experience to develop this ambitious Scotland-wide programme. It highlights the transformative potential of AI, considers the challenges of adoption, and makes practical support available to companies looking to embed AI in their operations.”