Artificial Intelligence : a study into the maturity levels of AI technology in Maltese companies

Abstract

Malta’s recorded interactions with distributed ledger technology is well documented. In a short time, the disruptive technology became a spearhead for the country’s technological front, thereby establishing Malta’s outlook towards the technology as significant and compelling for both public and private entities. Awaiting a similar trajectory is artificial intelligence (AI). The scope of this dissertation was to critically review a variety of Maltese companies’ current adeptness and future outlook in view of artificial intelligence technology. Ultimately, the research explores the AI adequacy of Maltese companies on an AI Adeptness Matrix.

Predominantly operating in the Maltese financial and gaming sectors, several companies of considerable renown were selected to provide insight towards the research. In an effort to comprehensively understand both the private and government perspective on the artificial intelligence technology, the sample included a number of public entities. In total, 10 interviews were held.

Data collection consisted of primary sources of information such as the interviews aforementioned as well as secondary forms of academic information. A qualitative research methodology was adopted, utilizing semi-structured interviews as the main medium of data acquisition. Post-analysis of the transcribed data by way of Thematic Analysis showcased 5 main themes consisting of 18 sub themes. The concluding chapter realizes that of the entities interviewed, none possessed the portfolio of variables to find themselves beyond the Proficient quadrant in the proposed AI Adeptness Matrix.