Paychex Survey Finds AI is Empowering Small Businesses, with 72% Feeling Positive
Study reveals AI adoption is strong, but success hinges on data quality and trust
Of the survey respondents using AI today,
The study also revealed that
"AI allows a business to punch way above its weight," said Beaumont Vance, Paychex senior vice president of data, analytics, and AI. “It’s a particularly great equalizer for small- and medium-sized businesses in an increasingly competitive landscape. Understanding and embracing AI’s full potential can boost efficiency, enhance decision-making, and deliver tangible ROI.”
Additional key findings from the survey included:
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AI is only as good as its data: Nearly one in five (
18% ) of respondents using AI today said they have faced difficulties due to poor data quality. Moreover,53% state that accurate data would enhance their trust in AI tools, emphasizing the strong relationship between data integrity and AI adoption. -
Data security & privacy remain a common concern:
54% of businesses cite data privacy and security as a primary challenge to AI adoption, with45% of those respondents citing concerns about how technology companies use their data, and17% stating they do not trust technology companies with their data. -
Anticipated acceleration of AI investment in people operations and functions:
72% of small businesses plan to invest at least in AI in the next year, with$1,000 53% directing funds toward HR – the top investment area. AI investments are also planned in recruiting (44% ), onboarding new employees (41% ), and employee retention (32% ), underscoring that AI adoption in human resources functions, from the recruiting stage through career development, is a priority.
For more insights and valuable resources on the key findings from survey, visit Paychex WORX.
About the Survey
The results in this report are derived from an online survey of 1,129 respondents comprised of 500+ business owners and 500+ HR leaders. The survey was fielded from February 7 to 17, 2025, and results were not weighted.
About Paychex
Paychex, Inc. (Nasdaq: PAYX) is an industry-leading HCM company delivering a full suite of technology and advisory services in human resources, employee benefit solutions, insurance, and payroll. The company serves over 745,000 customers in the
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Media Contacts
Tracy Volkmann
Manager, Public Relations
(585) 387-6705
tvolkmann@paychex.com
Emily Walsh
Highwire Public Relations
Account Executive
(914) 815-8846
paychex@highwirepr.com
Source: Paychex, Inc.