AI in information processing for decision making - perceptions and use intention of UK managers

Information processing forms an essential part of any decision making process as it enables decision makers to assess various options, evaluate risks and opportunities to make best choices. In the context of business decision making, information processing also enable managers to make decisions that align with organizational goals and objectives. However, business managers are facing unprecedented challenges in dealing with ever growing abundant data and struggling to make sense of it to make well informed decisions. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making profound impact on every aspect of business operations and management, it has the great potential in assisting/replacing business managers’ information processing activities Although the use of AI in decision making in general has attracted significant attention from researchers and practitioners, its specific role and impact on business information processing at the individual manager level have not been well explored and examined theoretically and empirically. To address this knowledge gap, the study reported in this short paper aims to empirically investigate the current challenges faced by business managers and their perception and intention in utilising AI for information processing in their decision making process. Three key research questions covering perceived challenges, AI roles and use intention are raised. A questionnaire survey was conducted in the UK to collect data to understand the managers perceptions and use intention. Preliminary data analysis provides very interesting findings and valuable insights. Important implications for theory development and research directions are highlighted.