This study presents an innovative methodology to identify and characterize firms that adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) by leveraging diverse sources of large-scale microdata.
Focusing on the United Kingdom, the analysis integrates data on Intellectual Property Rights, website information, online job postings, and firm-level financials to study AI adoption patterns. The results highlight that a significant proportion of AI adopters are concentrated in the Information and Communication Technologies and professional services sectors, primarily located in the southern region of the United Kingdom, especially around London.
Adopters of AI tend to be larger and more productive than non-adopters, with younger firms being more likely to hire AI workers at a higher rate. Additionally, human capital plays a vital role in AI adoption and firm productivity. The analysis further highlights noteworthy differences in AI adoption characteristics across firms carrying out AI innovation, those with an AI core business, and those seeking AI talent. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and industry players aiming to foster AI adoption and integration in their business operations.