Artificial Intelligence Adoption and Organizational Performance of Chinese SMES

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a strategic driver of organizational transformation and competitiveness in the digital economy. This study examined the relationship between AI adoption and organizational performance among Chinese small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Guided by the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) Framework and Resource-Based View (RBV) Theory, the study employed a quantitative correlational design involving 300 SME owners and managers from major Chinese economic centers. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire measuring AI adoption in terms of AI infrastructure, AI applications, employee AI competency, and AI integration, as well as organizational performance in terms of operational efficiency, innovation capability, customer satisfaction, and financial performance.