A recent study by the global partner law firms of ECOVIS International shows that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is still remarkably underutilised in companies – despite clear benefits such as efficiency, cost savings and higher productivity. Why is this? Perhaps it is due to restrictive legislation or fears of personal data misuse?
AI Usage in Companies: Lack of Knowledge Is the Problem
The study carried out by ECOVIS International within its network shows that the biggest obstacle to AI in companies is people’s uncertainty, more so than a lack of technology and data protection concerns. A sometimes massive lack of knowledge and trust, unclear benefits, psychological reasons such as fear of job losses, and resistance to change all prevent the targeted use of AI by companies.
“People’s fears and potentially excessive inconsistent government regulations could mean that AI will continue to receive little support as a valuable complementary tool in many industries. This clearly means that anyone who wants to profit from the benefits of AI must invest in entrepreneurs and employees,” says Inga Karulaitytė, partner of ECOVIS ProventusLaw law firm. “This can be done, for example, through targeted training in the use of tools and software, with information on data protection rules and, in some cases, discussions to remove uncertainties and break down barriers.”
AI Potential as a Remedy for Excessive Government Bureaucracy?
The sectors mentioned in the study with the highest AI potential are the healthcare sector and government players. The advantages lie primarily in process automation, increased efficiency, cost reduction and the promotion of innovation and accuracy in work. Many of the 42 participating law firms cite the challenges as legal certainty for companies, personal data protection and strict regulations that prevent innovation. The study reveals that 40.5% of countries surveyed still have no legal regulations for AI.
The responses from study participants show that the potential lies primarily with government agencies that have high administrative costs. “Agencies and administrations should take advantage of opportunities to streamline their operations and become more efficient”, says Alexander Weigert, Vice President of ECOVIS International. “Less overregulation would also please small and medium-sized enterprises, which have to invest too much time in unnecessary bureaucracy. Time that they could use for innovation and productivity.”
About the Study
ECOVIS International is an international consultancy network with locations in over 90 countries. 42 partner firms from 36 countries participated in the study. The participants were composed as follows by region: eight from South and North America (Americas), seven from the Asia-Pacific region (APAC), 22 from Europe (including 19 EU countries) and five participants from Africa and the Middle East (MEA). The survey consisted of ten questions, three of which were multiple choice and seven open. The survey was voluntary and open for participation for three weeks in May 2025.
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